The winner of the 2011 Prize was announced on 22 September 2011. Nat Quinn from Darlington wins the Valeria Sykes Prize

Named The Valeria Sykes Prize after our main sponsor, the prize was open to artists between the ages of 23 & 35, living and working in the North of England. Artists who have received their arts degree in the North of England also meet the geographical requirements.

Artists were invited to submit paintings that meet the criteria within the time frame specified.

The works were shortlisted by our panel of independent judges.

Work from the shortlisted artists are being showcased and offered for sale in a high profile exhibition at the Mercer Gallery in Harrogate, North Yorkshire.

After viewing the exhibition the judges will selected a winner.

The Prize consists of three parts:
• A cash award of £10,000 donated by our sponsor Valeria Sykes. This award will be made in four payments of £2,500 over the course of the following year
• The winner will be given the opportunity of exhibiting at a subsequent exhibition about 2 years after the award
• The winner will be offered business coaching and advice from an experienced business mentor

In addition to the award outlined above, the Valeria Sykes Prize provides all short-listed artists with:
• An exhibition of selected artists’ works at a high profile venue
• Online exhibition of selected artist works on the New Lights website
• An invitation to the exhibition preview, with the opportunity to speak with potential collectors and dealers
• Media coverage and the associated marketing of the Prize