Horseplay Design Competition
We’re thrilled to officially launch the Horseplay Design Competition, a creative opportunity for local people to become part of a bold new public art trail in Newmarket — and to have their story quite literally carved into the landscape.
Commissioned by Discover Newmarket, Newmarket Town Council, and Love Newmarket, and inspired by the National Horseracing Museum’s playful exhibition Horseplay, this summer trail will feature a series of large-scale wooden chess pieces — each telling a story through symbolic carved motifs.
As the artists behind the trail, we at Neith Art & Sculpture are inviting the people of Newmarket to design three of the most important pieces: the Pawns.
Why the Pawns?
In chess, Pawns represent the everyday person — the steady, determined individuals who move the world forward one step at a time. In this trail, they also represent you.
We're asking you to submit original motif designs that reflect your personal connection to Newmarket. These could be inspired by your heritage, hobbies, community, work, memories, or dreams — anything that tells your story visually.
Using the visual language of heraldry — shields, symbols, icons — your designs will become part of a permanent artwork, engraved into timber and installed in public spaces for all to enjoy.
Over 100 Stories Already Shared
So far, we’ve had the pleasure of engaging with over 100 Newmarket residents through hands-on clay workshops and creative sessions. These workshops have been a joyful and powerful way for people of all ages to reflect on their experiences and translate them into sculptural symbols, from family histories and community roles to personal passions and hopes for the future. The energy, talent, and insight we’ve seen has been incredible, and we can’t wait to see what else emerges from this open call.
How to Enter
This competition is open to everyone, regardless of age or artistic experience.
You can create your design in any form:
- A drawing or painting of motifs
- A digital artwork or collage
- A clay sculpture of a Pawn with added symbols
- Or simply a clear motif or set of symbols on paper
The only requirement is that your symbols are recognisable, personal, and tell a story.
How to Submit
Send a photo of your design by Monday 16 June 2025 to:
info@neithartandsculpture.co.uk
(Subject line: Horseplay Design Competition)
Or share your design on our Facebook page and tag us:
@NeithArt with #HorseplayComp
We’ll be selecting three winning designs to be carved onto full-sized wooden sculptures, ready to be unveiled as part of the Horseplay Trail launching this July.
Key Dates
- Submission Deadline: Monday 16 June 2025
- Winners Announced: Friday 20 June 2025
- Public Trail Launch: Saturday 19th July 2025
Be Part of Something Meaningful
At Neith Art & Sculpture, we believe in public art that tells real stories, not just about history, but about the people living here today. This competition is your chance to shape a piece of Newmarket’s visual identity and celebrate what makes the town, and its community, unique.
Whether you're a seasoned artist or just someone with a good idea, we’d love to see what you create.
Let your imagination lead the way.
