Art Competition 2025

Art Competition 2025

The Credit Union Art Competition 2025 is here! The theme for this year’s Credit Union Art Competition is ‘The Future Is’. This year’s theme gives participants the opportunity to present their own interpretation of what joy they see as the future.

2025 CREDIT UNION ART COMPETITION LAUNCHED

Ballycastle Credit Union is delighted to launch the 2025 Credit Union Art Competition and is calling on local artists of all ages to take part in one of Ireland’s longest running and most inclusive art initiatives. The competition invites people from all walks of life to express themselves through creativity, with this year’s theme asking them to reflect on “The Future is…”

This year’s theme encourages artists to look ahead with imagination, hope and curiosity.

Participants might explore personal dreams and milestones, a better world for the next generation, or how change and progress might shape our lives and communities. Whether bold and futuristic or thoughtful and personal, the theme offers endless possibilities for creative interpretation.

Now in its 42nd year, the Credit Union Art Competition continues to support and promote creativity at every stage of life. From early learners to lifelong artists, the competition celebrates the power of art to connect, inspire and bring communities together.

We believe in supporting not only financial wellbeing, but also personal growth and connection through community involvement. The art competition is part of that wider mission, encouraging children and adults alike to think, create and share their ideas with others.

The competition is open to entrants across two categories:

  • General Category
  • Additional Needs Category

Each category is broken down into five age groups (based on age as of 31 December 2025):

  • 7 years and under
  • 8 – 10 years inclusive
  • 11 – 13 years inclusive
  • 14 – 17 years inclusive
  • 18 years and over (Adult)

Entries will be judged on originality, creativity and how well the theme is explored. All artwork must be hand-drawn or painted. Digital artwork will not be accepted. Local winners will go forward to regional and national stages of the competition.

The Credit Union Art Competition gives people of all ages an opportunity to express their ideas and dreams through art. ‘The Future is…’ is a powerful and open-ended theme, and we look forward to seeing the imagination, colour and meaning that our local artists will bring to it.”

Teachers, parents, community groups and local artists are all encouraged to get involved and help spread the word. Entry forms and competition details are available in our Ballycastle & Cushendall offices and each School or by downloading here.

The deadline for completed entries is Friday 24th October.