Buckler’s Hard launches new exhibition and art contest

BUDDING artists have the chance to see their work exhibited alongside TV Landscape Artist of the Year semi-finalists at a new exhibition in Beaulieu.

The Art of Buckler’s Hard showcase, which recently opened in the Shipyard’s Office, features paintings created during the Sky Arts’ semi-final and artworks from the Montagu family collection. Now the attraction has launched a competition for amateur and professional artists to have their works showcased as part of the exhibition, which runs until 3rd November.

TV show winner Monica Popham recently returned to Buckler’s Hard to see her original painting displayed alongside other semi-finalists.

Entries could include drawings, paintings, prints, sculptures, ceramics or textiles inspired by Buckler’s Hard or its maritime past. Entries should be submitted under the themes Sailing by, Where time flows differently or Step back in history.

Prizes include an overnight stay and three-course dinner at the Master Builders House hotel, activity vouchers and Beaulieu tickets.

While creating the exhibition, Mary Montagu-Scott delved into the Montagu family archives for a varied collection of watercolours, oil paintings, sketchbooks, textiles and other works of art.

She said: “We have gathered artwork from across the centuries, which has been tucked away in drawers, our archives and family homes, to create the new exhibition.

“We are excited to see it come together in one place, together with works by New Forest artists and Landscape Artist of the Year semi-finalists, which showcase the beauty and maritime history of Buckler’s Hard.”

All artwork must be submitted by May 31st via www.bucklershard.co.uk/artexhibitioncompetition