Children invited to create iconic artwork to light up flagship event

Children invited to create iconic artwork to light up flagship event

Arty youngsters can team up with Hacker T Dog for Wigan Borough’s annual Light Night Wigan and Leigh festival by creating their own celebrity masterpieces.

In a video released by the CBBC star Hacker, children aged between five and 11 are being called upon to design an illuminated artwork of a local personality as part of the festival.

The competition will see local children’s head-to-toe drawings of local icons transformed into life-size neon artworks that will play a starring role in the council’s annual Light Night celebrations.

Councillor Chris Ready, cabinet member for communities at Wigan Council, said: “Whether you’re looking back on history or you’re right here in the present day, we’re so lucky that our borough is brimming with skilled sportspeople, famous musicians, and scientists!

“I can’t wait to see some of the drawings from our borough’s budding artists, and I’m even more excited to see the winners final pieces transformed into life-size neon figures. It’s going to be excellent.

“We’re really proud of our Light Night celebration which is getting bigger and better with each year. It’s a brilliant free event and I’m so pleased that local children can be a part of the festivities.”

The full festival runs from Saturday, October 7 until Saturday, November 18 and will feature exhibitions at the Turnpike Gallery and a lantern parade in Leigh, culminating with a three-day light festival in Wigan town centre from Thursday, November 16.

Hacker T Dog added: “Whether you’re drawing lioness Ella Toone, scientist Kathleen Mary Drew-Baker or one of the Lathums… or me… you’re spoilt for choice with options on local icons from Wigan Borough.”

All entries must be received by midday on Friday 29 September, and can be submitted by emailing TheFireWithin@wigan.gov.uk or posting to the Turnpike Gallery.

Watch Hacker T Dog's video (external link).