Dundee‘s young artists bring HMS Unicorn’s bicentenary to life

More than 370 young artists from across Dundee and surrounding areas have honoured Scotland’s oldest ship in this year’s HMS Unicorn Schools Art Competition, an inspiring showcase of youth creativity tied to the ship’s 200th anniversary. 

Organised by the Unicorn Preservation Society, the annual competition invited pupils to explore the theme of ‘Celebration’, resulting in 372 colourful, creative entries from 15 schools and 22 classes, including nursery, primary, secondary and ASN pupils. The theme encouraged young participants to reflect on joy, community, and the rich maritime heritage embodied by HMS Unicorn. 

Winners were announced across multiple categories, with standout performances from Kingspark School, Forthill Primary, Tealing Primary, and Webster High School. The diversity of the winners reflects the wide appeal of the competition and the importance of inclusivity in community projects. 

Caroline Taylor, Assistant Museum Manager, said: “The talent and thoughtfulness on display this year was truly inspiring. Many of the entries beautifully captured a sense of pride and celebration, with heartfelt nods to HMS Unicorn’s history. It’s clear the ship holds a special place in the hearts of Dundee’s young people.” 

In a fitting tribute to the bicentenary, which was celebrated in 2024, the winning designs are set to be reproduced and displayed on the quayside area around HMS Unicorn, transforming fencing into a vibrant visual celebration of youth creativity and Dundee’s maritime story. This temporary installation will brighten the waterfront and draw further attention to the ship’s importance in the city’s cultural landscape. 

There has long been an art competition associated with HMS Unicorn. One of the Unicorn Preservation Society’s current trustees, Angus Easton, won a similar competition back in 1988. The competition was run as part of DC Thomson’s celebration of their 50th anniversary of the Beano and Dandy, run in conjunction with HMS Unicorn. Angus still has the letter, book and medallion he received for winning.  

This year’s art competition forms part of a wider celebratory and legacy-building activity surrounding HMS Unicorn’s bicentenary. The ship is currently undergoing major restoration as part of Project Safe Haven, an ambitious effort to preserve Scotland’s oldest ship and create a Maritime Heritage Centre in Dundee. 

Dr Andrew Tibbs, Chief Executive of the Unicorn Preservation Society, said:
“Celebrating HMS Unicorn’s bicentenary with the help of Dundee’s schoolchildren perfectly illustrates what the ship represents, heritage, community, and inspiration for the next generation. We’re proud to give young artists a platform while continuing to protect the ship for the future.” 

For more information on HMS Unicorn’s bicentenary and Project Safe Haven, or to support the ongoing preservation of this beloved Dundee landmark and accredited museum, please visit: www.hmsunicorn.org.uk