What is the Open?
The Open is your chance to be part of Leicester’s biggest annual celebration of creativity. If you live or study in the East Midlands and love making art — no matter your background or experience — you can submit your work for a chance to exhibit at Leicester Museum & Art Gallery. Running for over 35 years, the Open is all about showcasing the amazing talent from across our region. It’s a celebration of local art and the people who create it.
How does it work?
Each year, we accept submissions during late summer, and the exhibition launches in November / December. A panel of judges — made up of artists, curators, and community members — carefully select pieces from all the entries we receive. Painting, sculpture, textiles, prints, photography, and more — every kind of art is welcome. Selected works are displayed at Leicester’s New Walk Museum & Art Gallery, with Sponsored prizes awarded to some works.
Who can take part?
Anyone aged 5 and up who lives, works, or studies in the East Midlands can submit their artwork! This includes people from Leicester, Leicestershire, Rutland, Derbyshire, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, and Northamptonshire.
Is there an age category?
Yes! To give everyone a fair chance, we have two groups:
- The Open (for people aged 19 and over)
- The Open: Young People’s Exhibition (for ages 5–18)
This means you’ll see a wonderful mix of creativity from every generation when you visit!
How do you submit your work?
When submissions open, simply complete an online application form. We’ll share the link on this page when the time comes.
Is there a fee to enter?
- Adults (19+): There is a small fee to submit work to The Open.
- Young People (5–18): Entry is completely free!
Details about the fees and how to pay will be available here when entries open.
When will applications open?
Submissions for the Open usually open during the late summer. Keep an eye out for announcements through local press, arts networks, and Leicester Museum & Art Gallery’s channels. Full details and a link to the application form will be published here nearer the time.
If you have artwork that you would like to showcase please join the museum mailing list to receive regular news and updates on all museum events as well as the annual Open submission dates.
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