Competition: Take a fresh look at the Biennial

So, let’s get visual for a moment. Some say a picture paints a thousand words. Actually, it was Telly (Kojak) Savalas who said it, in his smash hit single of 1975, but he also said ‘everyone should have a little Greek in them’, so we’re not completely sure of its veracity.

But let’s assume the shiney pated one had a point. It would save us a hell of a lot of typing time.

So, there’s a Biennial happening. And it’s transforming the spaces between us. So, we think it would be fun to capture it in visual, as well as, journal form.

For our second Biennial competition we’re asking photographers or illustrators - or anyone working in a visual medium, or who has a camera phone or a Sharpie - to submit either an image, a drawing, a collage, or a series of images that reflects the Biennial back at us.

We’re not going to be so crass as to give you some clunky brief or prescriptive guidance here. You know the drill: go out there and see how the Biennial is being received. Document, as candidly and honestly, how the festival and the city interact. Or not. Show what happens when art meets us.

How hospitable are we?

We’ve, again, got a lovely prize for the image that makes us smile the most.

We’re offering an amazing two night stay at Hard Days Night Hotel for the winner plus a guest. Stay in one of the city’s most-talked-about hotels, be a tourist in your own town. Lap up the stunning sound system in your room, have a cocktail in Bar Four and head out for a night on the town (well, two nights) and see the city anew.

Winners can take their break between Sunday and Thursday, and it comes complete with a hearty breakfast to set you on your way for a couple of day’s sightseeing before returning to your four star home from home. We’ll also throw in a year’s membership at FACT - allowing you discounted cinema tickets, invitations to Members’ Screenings, and discounts in the bar and Café at FACT.

Closing date for entries, 1 November. Send them to [email protected]. And mark them Biennial Visual Competition. Usual rules apply - no images of minors without written consent of parents or guardians.

Our thanks to Hard Days Night hotel and Fact. Hotel stay subject to availability and must be taken by 30.03.2013