Manx-based software developer Canonical is inviting artists to get involved as it prepares to launch the latest version of its Ubuntu Linux operating system.

The Ubuntu Free Culture showcase offers photographers, artists and musicians from all over the world the opportunity to see their work in the next Ubuntu release, codenamed Maverick Meerkat, due for release on October 10.

The company is looking for graphic designers, musicians, photographers to contribute to Ubuntu - producing desktop backgrounds, icons and sound effects.

In a statement, Canonical encourages all contributors to use open source software for their artwork, and submissions must be made by the end of August.