08 Aug 07

The University of Oxford has extended the deadline for entries for its Design-a-Gargoyle competition because of the interest shown by the county's schools and colleges. The competition was due to close on 1 September 2007, but to allow the county's schools to participate, the closing date for entries will now be 19 October 2007.

The competition was originally designed as a project for young people during the summer break, but it will be open until mid-October to allow schools and colleges an opportunity to build a project around the gargoyle theme during term-time.

Oxfordshire Arts Adviser, Arthur Penn, said: 'This competition is focused on a subject area with great local interest. Therefore it could be a marvellous basis for an arts project and has appeal to all ages across the county.'

Isobel Hughes, Oxford University's Head Building Conservationist, said: 'We hope schools and colleges in Oxfordshire will grab this opportunity with both hands. This is a chance for students to have their ideas carved in stone and immortalised as gargoyles, which will grace the Bodleian Library for many years to come.

'We want to find monsters, myths and people connected with Oxfordshire, and we are encouraging schools and colleges to play a part in inspiring their students. We hope this competition will mean young people will take the time to have a good look at the gargoyles around Oxford and maybe carry out a bit of research into their local area for ideas.'

Anyone studying, living or working in Oxfordshire, between the ages of eight and 18, can submit their sketch of a gargoyle design. The idea must be based on one of three themes - myths, monsters or people - and have a historical connection with Oxfordshire within the last millennium. Entrants should sketch their design and explain the reasons behind their idea on the University gargoyle leaflet.

The leaflet is available at venues in Oxford and can also be downloaded from the web (see right). If entrants want to send supporting artwork, please send copies only (rather than original artwork) to the Public Affairs Directorate, University of Oxford, Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JD.