AN artist has been shortlisted in a national competition which could see his work displayed in bars across the country.

Ashley Kay, of Victoria Avenue, Bishop Auckland, County Durham, is one of three art students to reach the final of the Bar Culture competition.

The 23-year-old is a student at the University of York St John, having studied for A levels and a GNVQ at New College, Durham.

His entry, called Postcards to York Holiday Destinations, is a series of four paintings which initially appear to be paradise destinations.

He said: "The more you look you realise they are actually about current social and political issues - the Bali atrocities and race riots in Slovakia. I was really surprised they were so well received, I imagined they would be appreciated more in a gallery setting where people have time to look past the surface rather than a bar competition.

"It is my first competition and is good experience. It is giving me the chance to show my work and helps build my confidence."

The overall winner will be chosen at the end of this month after a public Internet vote and votes held in the Slug and Lettuce bar, in London's Soho.

The winning design will then be printed into posters to be displayed in the bar-chain's outlets across the UK.

Ashley's entry can be seen, and votes cast, at www.slugandlettuce.co.uk