21 Jun 07

The University of Oxford has launched a competition to invite youngsters to design their own gargoyle. It is hoped that up to 10 winners will have the opportunity to see their design interpreted into a real gargoyle for the University's 17th century Bodleian Library.

The competition called 'Millennium Myths and Monsters' is part of the Opening Doors, Opening Minds festival celebrating 1,000 years of Oxfordshire.

The Bodleian Library is currently undergoing major renovation works to preserve its architecture for the next millennium. There is extensive damage to 10 gargoyles on the northwest face of the building with no historical records on what the originals looked like.

Dr John Hood, Vice-Chancellor of Oxford University, said: 'The University is taking an exciting opportunity to create a lasting community monument in the heart of the University and the city that will celebrate 1,000 years of Oxfordshire history. The new gargoyles, based on the winners' designs, will be taking their place in history and will grace the Bodleian for many years to come.'

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.

Head of Conservation at Oxford University, Isobel Hughes, said: 'This an opportunity for the University to engage children in an educative process that stimulates them to find out more about the county where they live. It will reach out and show them they too can have an impact on history.'

On June 23, a stonemason will be at the Sheldonian Quad, Broad Street in Oxford from 10am-4pm to demonstrate his skill and show how he can create shapes out of stone.