Creative Competition | FAQs
Q: How many works can I submit?
A: Just one please. If you send more, the judges will pick which one they’ll judge.
Q: Will I get my physical artwork back after the competition?
A: Not automatically. If you want it back, you’ve got to email creativecompetition@falmouth.ac.uk and arrange collection by 31 July 2027. After that, we might have to get rid of it. You will also need to cover the cost of postage and packaging to return your work to you.
Q: When do I find out if I’ve won?
A: We’ll drop you an email by 26 April 2027 if you’re a winner. If you don’t hear from us by then, assume you didn’t make it this time.
Q: Are there size limits for 3D / physical work?
A: Yes - keep it within Royal Mail Medium Parcel size (61 cm × 46 cm × 46 cm, max 20 kg). Make sure it’s packed safely - we’re not liable for any costs or damage in transit.
Q: Any rules for digital art (photos, digital drawings)?
A: Send a high-quality photo or image with a resolution of 300 dpi/ppi. Make sure it’s crisp so we can see your work clearly.
Q: What info do I need to attach / include with my work?
A: We need all this so we know who made what:
- Your full name
- Your date of birth
- The name of your school/college
- Your school/college year group
If posting, attach a label securely (not loose paper). If emailing, put all this info in the email body. Also, if you’re 16+, make sure you filled the Entry Form in properly before you submit so we can match your details to your art.
Q: Can I team up and submit a piece with a friend?
A: Yes, collabs are allowed but any prize will be shared between collaborators.
Q: Even if I don’t win, will my work be shown somewhere?
A: Yes! There are two exhibitions:
- Winners’ exhibition at our creative campuses in May
- An exhibition of all entries at a later date
And we’ll also be showing everything at an online exhibition too!
Q: Who are the judges?
A: A panel made of Falmouth staff and student ambassadors.
Q: What’s the submission deadline?
A: 31 March 2027, 5 pm (UK time). If something comes in after that, we can’t accept it (unless you’ve already emailed us before the deadline and have been granted extenuating circumstances).
Q: I don’t exactly match the “eligible years or schools” stuff. Can I still enter?
A: Not this time. The competition is open to:
- Students in UK state schools / academies in Years 9 & 10,
- OR individuals aged 16+ (UK or international)
Students outside those criteria can’t enter this round.
Q: What’s the first-place prize?
A: The winner in any category gets £250 worth of art materials or resources (you choose). Could be a camera, art supplies, design software, a sewing machine — whatever fits your creative style (as long as it follows the rules).
Q: What if I want to use a weird / unusual medium that’s not listed?
A: Go for it - you can use any art medium as long as it follows our Terms & Conditions. If it's not in the list, check that it fits the rules (see Condition 9 in the Terms).
Q: I’m not sure what to make for my entry – can you help?
A: Yes! If you’re based in the UK and aged 16+ you can join the Future Creatives Collective (link to FCC webpage) running online 16-18 February 2026. You’ll take part in online workshops designed to help you generate ideas and build your submission. You’ll even get guidance on your personal statement and portfolio for a future application. Follow the link and find out more.
Q: I’m not eligible for the Future Creatives Collective – can I still enter the competition?
A: Absolutely! The Creative Competition is open to everyone in the eligible age groups, whether or not you’ve taken part in the Collective. You can create and submit your own original piece independently – just follow the theme and the competition guidelines.
Still have a question that’s not answered?
Email us: creativecompetition@falmouth.ac.uk – we’re happy to help!
Download our full Terms & Conditions below