ARTISTS will take to a field of sunflowers to paint the day away and raise money for a worthy cause.

At Maiden Castle Farm’s Sunflower Trail - due to open next month at the site just outside Dorchester - the community group Art in Poundbury will hold an open-air painting competition.

A provisional date of Sunday, August 25 has been announced for the open-air paint-out - called Art in the Sunflowers - with the event starting at 10am and finishing at 4pm.

The sunflower trail, organised by the Hoskin family, is now in its fourth year and raises money for the Special Baby Care Unit at Dorset County Hospital.

Artistic director of Art in Poundbury Judy Tate said: “We’re confident that the event will create a hubbub on the day, on top of everything else that will be going on.

“We’ve had to delay confirmation of the event, but it is such a brilliant idea that we are happy to embrace."

All the money from signing up to the event will be donated directly to the Special Baby Care Unit.

The event will take place during the bloom of the Sunflower TrailThe event will take place during the bloom of the Sunflower Trail (Image: Hollie Carr) Miss Tate, added: "Artists can be specific about where they choose to set up but the environment offers something different for everyone.

"Of course, people will have stunning views of the sunflowers as well as unadulterated views of Maiden Castle and the whole of Poundbury. It does tick a lot of boxes."

Following the event, winners of the various categories of competition will be announced, and there will be a presentation in the hospital. Prizes include £100 for the winners of both experienced and enthusiastic artists over the age of 16. There is a £30 Herrings art supply voucher for the winning artist for the aged six to 15 category.

All pictures from the day will be compiled into an online gallery of images, where people can directly contact the artist to buy paintings. Work will also be displayed in the hospital.

Art in Poundbury's previous event, Art in the Squares, was a successArt in Poundbury's previous event, Art in the Squares, was a success (Image: Jane Norman) “We want a relaxed, fun day, relaxed, with artists meeting and interacting with the public,” Miss Tate added. 

Entry and registrations will start at the farm from 10am. Those interested in signing up are reminded by organisers to bring their own painting supplies.

The event follows on from Art in Poundbury's successful community summer event, Art in the Squares, which saw almost 100 people take to the streets to paint. 

For more information and to sign up for the event, visit: https://artinpoundbury.co.uk/events/art-in-the-sunflowers/