A celebration of the diverse creativity of modern Norfolk artists will be showcased against a historic backdrop this summer.Organisers of the inaugural Fakenham Contemporary Art Exhibition have invited submissions in a range of artforms to be displayed in the town's 14th century parish church from July 2-12.

A celebration of the diverse creativity of modern Norfolk artists will be showcased against a historic backdrop this summer.

Organisers of the inaugural Fakenham Contemporary Art Exhibition have invited submissions in a range of artforms to be displayed in the town's 14th century parish church from July 2-12.

The exhibition is open to emerging and established artists from across the county, working in ceramics, collage, drawing, installation, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture and textiles.

The subject matter is not restricted and all selected works will be available for sale, with a commission going to the church.

Local artists Keith and Debbie Osborn, of Hillside Gallery and Studios in Fakenham, are organising the event in conjunction with Fakenham Parish Church.

Mr Osborn said: “This is an exciting new venture for the town and will begin to put Fakenham on the arts map of Norfolk.

“There is such vitality and creativity in our county and being able to use this stirring venue to showcase some of the best work of Norfolk's contemporary artists and makers will make for an exhilarating exhibition.”

The Rev Adrian Bell, rector of Fakenham Parish Church, said: “I am absolutely thrilled that the church is hosting this exhibition.

“The vital artistic creativity practiced by those in our community and beyond deserves to be celebrated and where better than in such a living and inspiring venue.”

Artists wishing to take part should be resident in Norfolk and must submit original work, ideally completed within the last two years.

Further information and a Call for Entries is available at www.fakenhamarts.org.uk. The closing date for submissions is Friday 17 April.