ARTISTS and photographers of amateur and professional status, including students, are being challenged to "make art out of people" for a major selling exhibition in the new year.

The People Show, an open competition for the North-East, offers prizes ranging from £250 to the £1,000 first prize, including a £500 prize for photography.

Now in its sixth year, and sponsored by Cravens Advertising, it will be presented at the new University Gallery at the University of Northumbria in Newcastle on January 21.

Paintings, drawings, watercolours, prints, photography, sculpture and a new film category will be selected by a panel of judges from the world of art, industry and communications. A new student award will seek up and coming talent.

To find out how to enter, log on to www.thepeopleshow.com to download an application form or contact the University Gallery on 0191 2274424.

Submissions must be delivered on January 10 and 11 (9am-6pm). Entrants may submit two works each, for a fee of £6 per piece; only one item will be exhibited if selected.

The University Gallery is open from Monday-Thursday (10am-5pm) and Friday and Saturday (10am-4pm). Admission is free.