A COMPETITION to get the community creative is coming to an end this week.

Inspired by the empty billboards in town, the 'Eight words for Barrow’ project is asking residents to add words and thoughts to them, activating a virtual conversation amongst local people reflecting the current challenges, frustrations and hopes for the future ... in just eight words.

The winning entries in three age groups will receive a framed print of their words mocked up on the billboard photo.

The project is being run by the Art Gene Gallery, on Bath Street.

Winners will also be featured in a future exhibition in the Art Gene Gallery alongside works by professional artists working on the Extreme Views programme.

Art Gene artist/director Maddi Nicholson said: “When I saw the blue billboards, I was immediately inspired. I liked the fact that advertising had stopped, and the possibility for blue-sky thinking had taken over on the roundabout. Art Gene have postponed all community events because of the pandemic, but this is a way you can to stay in touch, become involved and keep thinking and talking about the future of this unique place.”

Anyone can enter, by going on line to www.art-gene.co.uk/news/8-words.