Artists are being given the opportunity to submit their artwork for the Ferens Art Gallery’s 2026 Open Exhibition.
Having celebrated incredible artistic talent since 1967, the Open Exhibition is open to everyone – from new and emerging artists to established pros. It offers an opportunity for artists to display and sell their work, as well as giving visitors a chance to get an insight into Hull’s thriving art community and further afield.
All UK artists aged 16 or above can enter and are eligible to submit up to three pieces of work from Wednesday 30 April to Thursday 21 May, using an online application form. Works will then be considered and selected by a panel of specialist judges in July.
This year’s selectors will be Anna Turzynski, Arts Director at Sunnybank Mills, Daniel Watts, Disability Access Consultant and Sam Larter, Artist.
Chosen artworks will be on display from Friday 16 October 2026 until Sunday 10 January 2027 at the Ferens Art Gallery. Successful artists will also be eligible to win cash prizes sponsored by the Friends of the Ferens and BSB Architecture.
There is a £7.50 charge to submit each piece of work, and it must have been created within the last 18 months. This year, the gallery has introduced a concessionary rate of £6 per artwork for 16–25-year-olds and disabled artists of any age. All artists will be notified of the selector’s decision by email and, if successful, will be asked to deliver the artwork to the gallery from Wednesday 23 to Wednesday 30 September.
Community Curator of Art, Cerys Burke, said: “We are excited to see all the submissions to this year’s Open Exhibition. It is an ever-growing highlight in the gallery’s exhibition programme and draws thousands of visitors each year.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for local and UK-based artists to submit their artwork for consideration. We receive a broad range of works in all mediums showcasing exceptional talent.
“The exhibition is open to all, and we encourage artists who may not be comfortable submitting online, to sign up to one of our free 30-minute workshops at the gallery.”
For full terms and conditions, more information on submitting artwork or to book a place on a free workshop please visit www.ferensopen.co.uk.
This exhibition is kindly sponsored by the Friends of the Ferens and BSB Architecture.