Region urged to get creative ahead of Tour de Yorkshire

With less than 100 days to go until the start of this year’s Tour de Yorkshire, Welcome to Yorkshire has launched its annual land art competition to seek out the county’s best installations.

Last year’s competition saw large eye-catching pieces displayed right along the race route, and businesses, landowners, farmers, schools and community groups are being encouraged to get creative once again ahead of the three-day event.

Whether it’s a church spire draped in a blue jersey, a field housing a mammoth bicycle, or a market square spelling out messages of support, all pieces are welcomed and will be in with a chance of being seen by 11 million people in 178 countries when the race is televised live.

Last year a giant piece of art featuring a horse, ram and wild boar riding a penny farthing on Sutton Bank – commissioned by the North York Moors National Park Authority and Hambleton District Council – was crowned the winner after an international public vote. Land Art

Chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire Sir Gary Verity said: “Yorkshire’s land art has attracted a lot of attention in the past, with people creating everything from multi-coloured sheep and spotty houses, to huge murals and striking street art.

“These fantastic pieces really bring the race to life and give you the chance to celebrate your community. We want you to shout to the world about what Yorkshire has to offer.”

Those wanting to enter should aim to create large, striking land art celebrating the theme of community. The art should also be located as near to the route as possible.

Entrants are advised to send in plans, pictures, designs and include information about what inspired the piece, how it will be made and where will it be located. This will then be shared with TV producers before the race in the hope of catching the cameras.

Welcome to Yorkshire will then shortlist the 12 best pieces during the tour which will run between April 28 – April 30. The shortlisted entries will then be put to a public vote and one winner will receive the land art trophy.

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