Enjoy creative writing?  Not sure where to start? A look at some of the thousands of amazing works of art from the national collection is a great place to begin.

Inspired? Get writing! creative writing competition is now in its sixth year. It is a joint venture between the National Galleries of Scotland, the Scottish Poetry Library and The English-Speaking Union, supported by the Scotsman. There are five categories for school pupils and adults: under 12; 12-14; 15-18. Entries can be in the form of prose or poetry but should be no longer than 1,000 words.

The closing date is Friday 21 January 2011. An award ceremony with public readings of the winning works will take place on 21 April 2011.

For full details of how to enter please download the rules and entry form from the National Galleries of Scotland website (link to http://www.nationalgalleries.org/education/competition/6:3740/19851/)