Swire Ridgeway Arts Prize

I am writing on behalf of the Friends of the Ridgeway. And to bring to the attention of members of your organisation an arts prize.

The Ridgeway – the oldest road in Britain – historically was a trackway providing a reliable trading route from the Dorset coast along the chalk Downs to the Wash in Norfolk. Today it is not only the oldest road but part of that original route is a National Trail; it is also a wonderful resource for all the communities that live along its route, not just walkers where visitors and locals alike can enjoy walking, riding or just being there.

The Friends of the Ridgeway, a voluntary organisation and registered charity, is committed to the preservation in perpetuity of all the natural aspects and features of the ancient Ridgeway. Details of the Friends are at http://www.ridgewayfriends.org.uk/ As part of our work, based on a generous donation, The Friends of The Ridgeway have established an annual arts competition and prize – the Swire Ridgeway Arts Prize. The aim of the competition is to bring The Ridgeway to life not only as a long distance trail but as an artistic inspiration, and to show The Ridgeway, its history and environs, in all their aspects throughout all seasons. The theme is ‘The Ridgeway: history, ecology, and landscape across the surrounding environs ’. There will be separate classes for painting, sculpture, photography and writing (poetry or prose).

This prize maybe of interest to your members. In addition to photography, there are three other categories of work invited, being painting and drawing, sculpture, photography and written work. I would be grateful if you could bring the competition to the notice of members.

Anthony Burdall
Friends of the Ridgeway
2 Fernham Road
Faringdon
Oxfordshire SN7 7JY
Tel: 01367 240713
Mob: 07841352938
Email: anthony.burdall@burdall.net