ARTISTS in Bolton are being encouraged to put their brushes to canvas and win £10,000 for contemporary visual art in the north of England.

The Comme Ca Art Prize 2004, now in its second year, brings the art and artists from across northern England to a wider audience.

Artisits can be nominated by the public and the closing date for entries is August 27. The winner will be selected from a shortlist of artists and announced on November 25.

Comme Ca art director, Claire Turner, said she was delighted to launch the prize for the second year.

"The prize has been so well received by the art community and galleries. It has certainly helped those working and exhibiting in the North enjoy a wider profile and we hope to see entries from Bolton artists this year."

Nomination forms are available online at www.commecaart.com.