Young artists wanted: turn Devon’s landscapes into prize-winning art

Devon’s budding artists are being reminded that time is running out to enter a county-wide competition celebrating the beauty of the local landscape.

Devon CPRE, the countryside charity, is calling for submissions to its annual Best Young Landscape Artist competition, with just four weeks left before the closing date at the end of September.

Open to anyone under 18, the contest invites paintings, drawings, textiles, collages or mixed media works that capture a favourite Devon view. That could be a much-loved beach, a walk in the park, a local green space, or even the artist’s own back garden.

The competition is split into two age groups — 12 to 18 years, and 7 to 11 years — with a £100 cash prize for each winner and £25 for the runners-up. The best entries will be exhibited at the Museum of Dartmoor Life in Okehampton.

The competition was launched several years ago with the support of Exeter-based landscape artist Kath Hadden, who continues to help judge alongside Devon CPRE director Penny Mills. Both say they are consistently impressed with the quality of the work.

Penny said: “Kath and I love looking through all the artwork, and we are always amazed by the talent of the children and teenagers who enter.

"Their depictions of Devon’s coast and countryside are impressive, and we are very grateful to the Museum of Dartmoor Life for the opportunity to put their artwork on public display.

"No doubt, we will again have our work cut out choosing this year’s winners. We look forward to seeing what 2025 will bring.”

To enter, submissions must be A3 or A4 in size, with the artist’s name, age and contact details on the back. Entries should be posted to Devon CPRE, PO Box 26, Beaworthy, EX21 5XN, by Saturday 27 September 2025. If artists want their work returned, they must enclose a stamped addressed envelope with the correct postage.