Stendhal Festival has announced that applications for their 2018 Stendhal Featured Artist prize are now open.

The multi-award winning music and arts festival based in Limavady, introduced the prize for the first time last summer in order to help shine a light on up and coming Northern Irish artists, provide them a platform and have their work be the basis of their visual marketing strategy for the year.

The winning artist will receive a £500 prize, have their work highlighted through Stendhal, have the featured spot in the Stendhal Art Gallery at the event and have their work used in conjunction with Stendhal’s marketing campaign across, posters, billboards, flyers, social media and television.

Last year’s inaugural winner, Rachel Morrow, from Island Magee, said she thoroughly enjoyed the experience and urged any up and coming artists to apply for the prize.

“It was a fantastic experience to be Stendhal’s first featured artist,” said Rachel.

“Not only was it extremely enjoyable but I also benefited a lot from the opportunity, experience and of course, exposure.

She continued. “With over 6000 people in attendance, the exposure I gained as an emerging artist was priceless. Stendhal gave me the opportunity to raise my artist profile, network and sell.

“It was also a great experience learning how to exhibit in a non-traditional space, the vibes of the event and the ethos behind my work really meshed together well.”

Since Stendhal Rachel has continued apace with her art work, she completed a large commission for Electric Picnic Music Festival, been involved in more exhibitions and has sold more paintings, all while working on an online store and a new collection of prints.

She concluded by saying: “The festival is getting bigger and better every year. If you’re looking for exposure and an exciting opportunity to network, sell and raise your profile, it’s a no brainer, apply this year.”

To apply for the Stendhal Festival Featured Artist Prize 2018, simply visit Stendhalfestival.com, click on the BLOG link at the top right hand corner of the landing page and then click on the Featured Artist Link for all the info.

For any general enquiries about the prize contact Colm O’Donnell at colmo@stendhalfestival.com

Entries are open now and close on Friday, March 9.