Art for Peace competition on the lookout for artists

AN ‘ART for Peace’ competition is on the lookout for local artists to submit pieces to raise money for refugees in Calais.

The competition, run by Wincanton-based artist Mel Sewell, is open to all and has been organised in support of the Somerset charity Care4Calais. The theme for artwork is ‘Anti-war, pro-refugees.’

Frome cafe Paccamora will be a collection point for pieces to be submitted.

Organiser Mel said, “We have a cosy existence in Britain; we cause war yet we do very little to help the casualties besides spouting forth rhetoric. I decided I needed to act, that it wasn’t good enough to just sit idly by.

“Artists are at the forefront of communications which can lead to change, if not awareness. Artists (like Banksy) can help awaken the minds of the population and cause change in political attitudes. So I decided to set up a creative challenge for artists to come up with a visual message that would stand against wars and for refugee camps.

“I am not a radical, promoting anarchist policies. I am an ordinary human who knows I can help cause change by simple humanitarian actions.

“The final winning piece of art will be produced as a t-shirt and sold online, with the proceeds going to the Care4Calais charity. Travelling exhibitions will also be arranged for the top 20 pieces. I am particularly keen to involve all ages, including those still at school.”

The competition ends on 31st March. There will be a prize of £150 for the winner, and their work will be printed on a t-shirt – proceeds from sales will go to Care4Calais.

The charity is based in Somerset and has volunteers in refugee camps in Calais, who focus on providing refugees with food, clothing, heating and legal and medical support.

To find out about Care4Calais’ work visit www.care4calais.org or find ART for PEACE on Facebook.