YOUNG artists are being encouraged to submit work to be considered for a new trophy at the 34th Ryedale Open Art exhibition.

Artists under the age of 25, who are working in any media, will be considered for the James Lishman Arts Award.

The trophy is the brainchild of James, an artist and long-time contributor to the exhibition and a big advocate of young artists.

“There is so much young talent in Ryedale and I really feel young people should be encouraged,” he said.

“So many bad things are said about young people these days but when I saw the work which was being exhibited at the Ryedale Open last year I was just blown away, and inspired to do something to celebrate it.”

He added: “I’m 80 now and I still remember my first exhibition which was in 1942. I haven't missed many years of the Ryedale Open - which I think is the finest exhibition in the North - and it's so important that as we old artists fade away we are replaced by young artists to keep this wonderful exhibition going.”

While the James Lishman Award is for under 25s, the exhibition itself is open to any artist of any age who lives, works or studies in Ryedale.

Work can be in any medium including painting, sculpture, textiles and photography and application packs are available now from Yvette Turnbull, Ryedale District Council, Ryedale House, Malton YO17 7HH or 01653-600666, ext. 241.

The exhibition, held at the Milton Rooms in Malton, opens on July 16 and the closing date for completed applications is June 17.