Calling Young Artists

Leigh On Sea News: Calling Young Artists – SOUTHEND City Day returns on Saturday, 7 March 2026, and as part of this year’s celebrations, Southend Council is inviting budding young artists to take part in the City Day Secondary Schools Portrait Competition at The Royals Shopping Centre.
The creative contest is open to students in Years 7 to 11 from Southend schools and colleges. There will be one lucky winner per year group on the day. They will each receive: £50 Lawrence Matthews voucher and a £250 for their school or college’s art department.
Five students from each year group will step up to their easels and take part in a live, one-hour portrait challenge, working in a semicircle around a sitter in front of an audience. Participants may use the provided materials or bring their own, but this is a drawing and painting competition only.
To enter, students must submit a portrait created within the last 12 months of any subject. Entries must be made by schools or colleges and include: A clear image of the artwork, the student’s year group and contact details for the designated teacher.
Submissions should be emailed to Simon La Roche ([email protected]) by end of the day on Friday, 27 February.
Entries will be judged by the Council in partnership with local artist Andy Downes. Selected young artists will be notified by Tuesday, 3 March and must bring their submitted artwork with them on the day.
A council statement said: “Why Take Part?
“Southend City Day celebrates the creativity, diversity and pride that make Southend extraordinary. The portrait competition is the perfect stage for young artists to shine, grow in confidence and be part of a major city-wide celebration.”
Coun Matt Dent, cabinet member for Business, Culture, Music and Tourism, said: “Southend City Day is a fantastic opportunity for young artists to get involved and showcase their creativity.
“The portrait competition is a great platform for them to shine, and I can’t wait to see what students across the city produce. It promises to be a wonderful day of community pride and celebration.”
The council statement added: “If you’re a teacher, please encourage your students to step forward, pick up their brushes, and show the city what they can create.
“Find out more about City Day and how you can take part visit the website.
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