A TALENTED Newquay artist is hoping she wins the jackpot in a national art competition for her painting of an amusement arcade.

Diane Griffiths’ painting of Playland Amusements in East Street titled Insert Coin to Begin has been shortlisted in the top 50 of the Supporting All Artists Artists of the Year 2025.

Diane's painting titled Insert the coin to begin ( )

She now needs people’s votes to secure the top prize in the prestigious art competition.

Diane, who is a member of Newquay Society of Artists, previously won the People’s Choice Award in The British Art Prize, Artists & Illustrators Magazine 2024 competition for her painting titled Driving Home, which features the Texaco filling station at the Gannel. She was awarded first prize following a public vote.

Diane said: “My painting Insert Coin to Begin captures a unique moment of Newquay.

“This painting bursts with the playful chaos of a Newquay arcade come alive after dark. The building glows; a beacon of neon blues, electric pinks, and blazing yellows, casting a kaleidoscope of colour across the wet pavement outside.

“The iconic signage above the entrance flickers slightly, as if daring passersby to step into this time capsule of fun and chance. The title, "Insert Coin to Begin", invites the viewer into the painting like a game waiting to start.

“It’s not just a night at the arcade. It’s a moment of escape, joy, and unfiltered British holiday magic. Just to the left of the arcade, is the humble seaside chip shop, its golden glow softer but no less inviting. This painting is a celebration of tacky brilliance, small thrills, satisfying comfort food and the holiday nostalgia of an evening wandering through a seaside town.

“We all have our favourite arcade game. I’m partial to the 2p machine. It’s all about that holiday nostalgia of an evening wandering through a seaside town. Those local to Newquay will recognise this arcade near the train station, opposite Aldi.

“Voting is now open I would be grateful and humbled if people would help me once again get my artwork seen by submitting their vote for my painting, which is another tribute to the everyday Newquay.

“Click on the thumbs-up icon at the top or top-right of the page. Enter email and click send conformation email. Go to your email to get a six digit code. Enter code back on the vote page.

“It would mean so much if people voted for my painting.”

Voting closes on Monday, November at 10am.