Kirklees Council, in collaboration with architectural practice Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, has announced an exciting opportunity for young artists and creatives as part of the ongoing Our Cultural Heart project.

The ‘Connected by Pattern’ competition invites students, aged 12-16, to showcase their creativity in designing unique patterns that reflect the heart of the Kirklees community – past, present and future.

The workbook can be found at all major libraries in Kirklees as well as Tolson Museum. It can also be downloaded here.

Each entry will be judged by a team of art, design and education representatives from Kirklees Council.

Winning designers will then have the chance to participate in the Kirklees Day of Pattern, a hands-on print workshop taking place on 25-26 March, 2025, at the West Yorkshire Print Workshop, set to open in the Piazza Centre on 16 March.

Under the guidance of professional artists and supported by the West Yorkshire Print Workshop, selected students will refine their designs and contribute to an exclusive collaborative artwork, set to be displayed in Huddersfield’s forthcoming museum and art gallery – part of Kirklees Council’s Our Cultural Heart redevelopment project.

The flagship new museum and art gallery will come in Phase Two of Our Cultural Heart. The Grade II listed building formerly housed the town’s library and will have a modern extension added helping to attract more visitors to the town and creating exciting opportunities for local businesses and the region’s culture sector.

Construction on Phase One of Our Cultural Heart is now well underway, with the former Queensgate Market building being transformed into a vibrant food hall and adjoining new community library.

Councillor Amanda Pinnock, Cabinet Member for Education and Communities, said:

“This is a wonderful opportunity to involve the young people of Kirklees in Our Cultural Heart in a genuine and meaningful way.

“The people of Kirklees are front and centre of this project and the young people of the region are especially important as we are developing their town centre for years to come.

“I can’t wait for the museum to open and to see the young people’s artwork on display, leaving a lasting legacy.”

Alice McClure, Associate Architect at FCB Studios – the project’s Social Value lead, added:

“As architects, we are fortunate to connect with the communities we serve. At FCBStudios, we strive to make a lasting impact through our Kirklees Day of Pattern – an initiative that inspires young people, builds confidence, and fosters creativity, sparking a passion for design.”

To submit, an adult representative must email a photograph of each student’s final design to Alice.McClure@fcbstudios.com, including the student's name and the name of the organisation.

All competition entries must be submitted by Friday, March 14, 2025.

More information about the Day of Pattern will be released the week commencing 17th March once the competition winners have been selected.