The swine-loving Cochon crew is returning to Memphis for their first ever Cochon Heritage BBQ festival. The festival will celebrate sustainable farming, fine dining, National Bourbon Month, and all things pork.

Though the festival isn’t until September, the Cochon crew is getting started a little early with an art contest to get people excited about the Labor Day weekend event.

Any artist can submit a proposal for a work that “embodies the spirit and culture of Cochon Heritage BBQ”. All mediums are welcome, but you should probably think twice before building a life-size replica of the Hernando De Soto bridge out of bacon.

Up to 15 artists will be chosen to create their works during one of Cochon’s events at South Main Trolley Tour during May, June and July. The grand prize winner’s piece will become a permanent part of the Cochon Heritage BBQ permanent art collection (and the winner will get $1650 in prizes). The runners up will receive more than $200 in prizes.

Proposals are due no later than April 30th. For more information on the contest and submission guidelines, go to www.cochon555.com for more information, or contact [email protected].