Artists of all ages are invited to enter a competition to immortalise the floatplane’s summer holiday by putting pencil to paper.
The newly restored Short Scion Floatplane G-AEZF is being displayed by Rochester Bridge Trust, inside Rochester Cathedral, after more than 12 years of work by Medway Aircraft Preservation Society Ltd (MAPSL).
Nicola Parks, Director of Charitable Projects at the Rochester Bridge Trust, said: “The floatplane is a really striking exhibit inside the Nave of the Cathedral and we thought it would be great to see how other people view it.
“This competition is about encouraging people to capture the floatplane and then turn it into their own work of art at home, whether painted, pencilled, charcoal, or even as a collage – all works of art are welcomed.”
The competition is free to enter and will be judged by representatives of the Rochester Bridge Trust. The shortlisted pictures will go on display inside the Bridge Chapel, with the winners of both categories announced during a presentation reception.
To enter, either post a photo of your artwork and your name on social media (Bluesky, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn or X), tagging the Rochester Bridge Trust and using the hashtag #FloatplaneArt, or email the photograph to enquiries@rbt.org.uk. If the artist is under 18, a parent or guardian must also email the entrant’s name and age as part of the entry.
Art will be judged in two categories: under 18 and adult. The closing date is 5pm on Sunday, 31 August, 2025.
The adult winner will receive £50 voucher towards a meal for two on Rochester High Street, while the under 18 winner will be presented with a bridge building kit.
Painstakingly rebuilt by Medway Aircraft Preservation Society Limited (MAPSL) with the help of a £40,000 grant from the Trust, the floatplane was made in the Short Brothers Factory that was once located on Rochester Esplanade.
The floatplane is on display in the cathedral for the whole of August 2025. It is accompanied by a range of engineering education activities. Entry and participation are free during the day.
For more information visit www.rbt.org.uk/floatplane
Competition terms and conditions apply, see https://rochesterbridgetrust.org.uk/competition-terms-and-conditions/