York and Lancaster: “Roses” Art Exhibition
Words by Charlotte Whitehill
[Edited by Myfanwy Greene]
Every Spring, the long-standing rivalry between the Universities of York and Lancaster is reignited in the spirit of sport during the annual “Roses” competition. But, this year, we have gone beyond the rivalry on the playing fields, and entered into the intense challenge of art. Through the “2025 Roses Art Competition”, students from both universities were invited to explore the theme of “Adrenaline/Motion/Movement/Unity,” creating original works that capture the essence of the “Roses” competition. The shortlisted submissions range from vibrant paintings to intricate mixed-media sculptures, each reflecting the physical and emotional power of this exciting theme and will shortly be going on display in our wonderful Norman Rea Gallery.
But what exactly is “Roses”, and why is it so special?
For University students, “Roses” is a highlight of the sporting year. Resurrecting the spirit of the War of the Roses, this weekend-long tournament brings together sporting teams, student media and crowds of supporters to pit the two universities against each other in a tense competition to see who will emerge victorious. The name “Roses” traces back to the War of the Roses in the the 15th Century, a deeply significant period in English history. The conflict between the Houses of York (symbolised by the white rose) and Lancaster (symbolised by the red rose) was more than just a power struggle; it was a clash of legacies that continues to resonate and is embedded in the cultural memory of both regions.
The first “Roses” tournament dating back to 1965! What began with rowing, table tennis, and even tug of war, this inter-university competition now encompasses over 50 sports and draws thousands of students together to compete and support one another. Both universities have shown their dedication and commitment to “Roses”, helping it thrive as a vibrant celebration of student talent, pride and unity. Now that York is hosting this year’s tournament, we also celebrate 60 years of sporting history! It feels only fitting to further extend this War of the Roses through the expression of art.
Beyond the sports field, “Roses” soon grew into a celebration of student talent, pride and collaboration. Now, it is a wonderful addition that the York Art Society has joined with Lancaster’s Up North Arts to introduce the “Roses” Art Competition, providing a creative and evolutionary dimension where the adrenaline of physical competition can be portrayed and reimagined through colour, shapes, and forms. Art, like sport, can serve as a vital platform for showcasing unity and passion, and this new competition effectively achieves this through interpretation, identity, and creative dialogue. The Roses Art Competition now stands as part of this fascinating inter-university tradition, offering a visual and explorative counterpart to the competitive spirit of the established physical sporting activities.
Through the themes of motion and unity, the selected artworks speak to the heart of the “Roses” legacy: a celebration of rivalry that brings people closer together, and a reminder that competition can fuel not only victory, but also creativity and connection. All of our shortlisted entrants are listed below. Huge congratulations and a massive thank you to all who have entered or who have been involved in establishing this new “Roses” event. We are already excited for next year!
Please join us on Friday 2nd May at 6.30 pm in the Norman Rea Gallery for the opening night of our “Roses” exhibition where we will be excited to announce this year’s winners. The exhibition will run until Friday 17th May, showcasing the remarkable talent of our student artists from both York and Lancaster.
Prizes:
1st Place: £50 voucher
2nd Place: £30 voucher
3rd Place: £20 voucher
Do not miss this wonderful display of student artwork celebrating tradition, rivalry and creativity. We look forward to welcoming you to the “Roses” Art Competition Exhibition 2025!
Aimee Burgin (University of York), Red lily, Acrylic paint.
Anna Cliffe (University of York), Focus, Marker pen mixed media.
Anna Lion (University of Lancaster), LEGACY, Sculpture, polystyrene, ply, plaster.
Anna Lion (University of Lancaster), LEGACY, Sculpture, polystyrene, ply, plaster.
Amber Goodyer (University of York), I Dare You, Oil Paint.
Daisy Couture (University of York), The Hunt Is On, Watercolour and ink on paper.
Eleanor Hull (University of York), Rabbit on the Run, Linocut print.
Julianna Ilnicka (University of York), Hello I’m Shelley Duvall!, Polymer Clay, aluminium foil, wire, poster tape, buttons, cotton fabric, hot glue, buttons, stuffing, acrylic paint.
