This summer, the streets of Newcastle-under-Lyme will come alive with colour, creativity and community and we want you to be a part of it!
We’re inviting people of all ages to submit artwork to be featured in a stunning flag installation across High Street, Ironmarket and Castle Walk. 70 designs will be turned into vibrant flags that will brighten up key town centre locations all summer long.
Who Can Enter?
Everyone! We’re accepting entries in three age groups with a town centre prize (or cash alternative) for the over all winner of each category:
- Up to 9 years old
- 10–17 years old
- 18+ (Adults)
What’s the Theme?
“People and Place”. We want to see what makes this town special to you. Your design can be:
- A local landmark like the Guildhall, Brampton Museum, Queen’s Gardens etc
- A favourite shop, park or corner of the town.
- People you know – friends, family or a self portrait.
- Anything that shows the connection between people and the place we all call ‘Castle.
You can use paint or drawing using on A4 or A3 – just make it colourful, creative and uniquely you.
Prizes
- One overall winner from each age group will receive a prize to the value of £150
- All selected artists will have their work proudly displayed in the town
How to Submit
- Entries open: Tuesday 15th April
- Deadline: Friday 23rd May
- Submit your entry by email: hello@nulbid.co.uk or drop it off at Newcastle BID Offices, 4 Fogg Street, Newcastle-under-Lyme
Help us bring colour and creativity to ‘Castle this summer. Whether you’re 5 or 85, pick up a pen, pencil or paintbrush and show us how you see our town.
FAQ’s
Q: What kind of artwork can I submit?
A: We’re looking for 2D artwork only – this includes paintings, drawings, collages, and mixed media (as long as it’s flat and can be scanned or photographed clearly). No digital art or photography this time.
Q: What size should my artwork be?
A: Ideally, please submit your work on A4 or A3 paper in portrait orientation (tall, not wide). This fits best with the flag design!
Q: Can I submit something I’ve already made?
A: Absolutely! If it fits the theme of People and Place and is your original work, feel free to send it in.
Q: Can I use crayons or felt tips?
A: Yes! You can use any traditional art materials – crayons, pencils, felt tips, pastels, paint, markers, etc. Just make sure your colours are clear and bold enough to be seen when printed as a flag.
Q: How do I submit my artwork?
A: You can scan or photograph your work and email to hello@nulbid.co.uk or drop it off in person at Newcastle BID, 4 Fogg Street, Newcastle-under-Lyme
Q: When is the deadline?
A: All submissions must be in by Friday 23rd May 2025.
Q: How will the winners be chosen?
A: A judging panel (to be confirmed) will select a mix of entries across all age groups and styles. We’re looking for creativity, originality, and how well the piece captures the theme.
Q: Will all entries be displayed?
A: We’ll be selecting around 70 artworks to be printed as flags and flown in the town centre. All artists chosen will be notified and celebrated publicly.
Q: Is there a prize?
A: Yes! One overall winner from each age group will receive a prize and be invited to a special event when the flags are launched in June.
Q: Can I submit more than one artwork?
A: You can submit up to two entries, but only one may be selected.
Q: Do I get my original artwork back?
A: Yes – if you drop it off in person, we’ll arrange for collection after judging is complete.
