Tall Lighthouse designed by Jess Perrin and small lighthouse designed by Kezia Hoffman
Tall Lighthouse designed by Jess Perrin and small lighthouse designed by Kezia Hoffman

Light the South: A call for artists to illuminate Southampton and Cowes: £1,000 prize

The ambitious public art venture, Light the South, has a new and exciting chapter, extending an official invitation to artists for designing Lighthouse sculptures.

Set to grace Southampton and Cowes in the summer of 2024, this initiative is an enthralling blend of community engagement and artistic expression.

A joint venture
A collaborative effort with Wild in Art, Light the South, kick-started in September, now beckons both seasoned and budding artists to contribute their creative genius to the 8ft Lighthouse sculptures.

With the backing of its presenting partner, Red Funnel, the initiative is casting a wide net, welcoming a plethora of artistic styles ranging from fine art and illustration to the more urban graffiti.

Community and commerce
In a show of local solidarity and patronage, each sculpture will be sponsored by either a local business or community group. These sponsors will have the privilege of selecting their favourite artwork from the gamut of submitted designs.

The chosen artists will not only receive a monetary reward of £1,000, but will also bask in the exposure as thousands of eyes admire their work along the sculpture trail threading through Southampton and Cowes.

A beacon of opportunity
Dr Neda Mohamadi, Art Curator, Southampton Hospitals Charity says,

“We are inviting artists to join us on our journey to bring Light the South to Southampton and Cowes.

“The trail presents an incredible opportunity for both established and emerging artists to engage, create, and be a part of a unique trail.

“I encourage our exceptional art community to get involved and submit their designs as we deliver a trail that lights up the South.”

How to participate
Aspiring participants are directed to the Light the South Website to fill out the artist design submission form.

Designs must be submitted by the 30th November 2023 to be considered.