YOUNG artists from across York have been trying their hand at creating a masterpiece for the city's art gallery.

Back in November, York Museums Trust launched the LS Lowry in York - School Challenge and today was the deadline for schools to get their entries in.

The competition gave under 18s the chance to enter artwork inspired by the artist to win a workshop for their school and have their work displayed when the newly refurbished York Art Gallery opens its doors this summer.

In 1952 York Art Gallery commissioned LS Lowry to paint a picture of York. He chose to paint Clifford’s Tower and his painting is now one of the most important modern works of art in the gallery’s collection.

York Museums Trust challenged schools to take Lowry’s painting as inspiration to create a brand new piece of artwork to tell visitors to the gallery what it is like to live in York today.

Gaby Lees, assistant curator of arts and learning, said: “We have had a great response to the LS Lowry in York Schools Challenge with all kinds of interpretations being submitted; from paintings, sculptures and stories to poems and even dances, all of which are of an exceptionally high standard.

"We are really excited to see some of this work professionally displayed when York Art Gallery re-opens in the summer following its huge £8 million refurbishment.”

Karen Thompson, who teaches at Knavesmire Primary School, said: “This competition has really captured the imagination of pupils of all ages at Knavesmire School with a fantastic range of work being submitted for this exciting prize.

"The pupils have all been incredibly dedicated to their projects. I am very proud of the effort they have all put in to create this imaginative and outstanding work.”

Prizes of two days of workshops with an artist will be awarded to the four schools who submit the best pieces.

The best artworks entered into the competition will be displayed in the gallery and the artists will be invited to a special gallery opening event.