HUANGPU district yesterday began soliciting ideas from artists, professional designers, residents and expatriates to brighten up ferries on Huangpu River.

The aim is to encourage the public’s artistic talents.

The Bund Art Project plans to display entries on six ferries along the popular ferry routes between Yangpu and Lupu bridges in September with sculptures, paintings and even LED effects.

Amateurs and professionals are invited to submit artworks for the ferries, said Zheng Jishun, the curator of the project.

An expert panel will choose the final designs.

Renowned Chinese artist Zhu Yingchun and Brazilian architect Fernando Brandao who designed the Brazil Pavilion at the Shanghai World Expo 2010, have been invited to design two of the ferries.

Amateur participants can submit their efforts before July 28 through the project’s official website on www.bundartplan.com. A top award of 10,000 yuan (US$1,450) is on offer.

The project aims to encourage the public to take part in art creations and inspire their talents, said Sophie Liu, general manager of the Shanghai Bestknown Ad, the project organizer.