Style guru Wayne Hemingway will be among the judges in a new competition for aspiring artists.

The founder of the Red or Dead fashion label recently launched The Hanging Jury, described as a cross between Pop Idol and the Turner Prize.

It will be run as a monthly micro-show on North East Tonight, which starts tonight and appeal for local artists to submit a piece of work to be judged by three notable critics including Mr Hemingway.

He will be joined by Andy Balman, director of new Tyneside art venue The Biscuit Factory, and another, as yet unnamed prominent art figure.

The artists who submit entries will be whittled down to a shortlist of 100, then go through a tough interview process with the critics to prove their artistic merit and strength of character.

Any form of art can be entered, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, video art or installations, and the winner will be revealed at a gala final due to be aired next March.

Entrants must be over 18, and the winner will receive a prize sponsored by up-market furniture store Barker and Stonehouse, be introduced to a top art agent, and have their own exhibition at The Biscuit Factory.

The show's producer, Keith Bell, said: "The aim of The Hanging Jury is to follow the trials and tribulations of 20 budding artists as they aim to create the masterpiece that could launch their career.

"Instead of searching for the next Robbie or Kylie, we are looking for the next Damien Hirst or Tracey Emin."

Professional artists, students and amateurs can enter the competition by logging onto www.thehangingjury.com or watching the programme.