Orleans House Gallery is inviting artists or collectives to design an exhibition that transforms the gallery into an imaginative, playful space for visitors of all ages. The exhibition will run from April to August 2026.
The Opportunity
The “Play and Imagine” programme focuses on how play and imagination influence daily life. Artists are commissioned to explore this through workshops, participatory events, and exhibitions. The exhibition aims to promote play and imagination across the community and is especially interested in:
● Imagination: Exploring when adults and children “lose” their ability to play and imagine.
● Intergenerational Work: Creating opportunities for families to play together.
● Art as Play: Encouraging adult spaces for play and imagination.
● Participation: Involving local communities in co-creation and engagement.
Engagement Opportunities
The artist can also lead workshops like the “Let’s Get Creative” session for families with children during August 2026 and collaborate with community partners on play and imagination themes. These workshops are optional.
Audience
The gallery attracts families, older adults, disabled individuals, artists, and art enthusiasts. The aim is to engage new visitors, especially from underrepresented groups.
Information & Application Details:
Applications open: Monday 13 January 2025
Deadline for proposal: 9am, Monday 10 February 2025
Interviews: w/c 3 March 2025
Initial artist meeting: April 2025
Artist curating / producing exhibition: May 2025 – March 2026 (to be confirmed with artist)
Exhibition install: Mon 23 March 2026 – Weds 1 April 2026
Exhibition opening: 2 April 2026
Exhibition closes: Monday 31 August 2026
Exhibition deinstall: 1-3 September 2026
Application fee: Free
Eligibility:
● Artist or Collective: Open to individual artists or collectives.
● Creative Approach: Applicants should be able to explore and interpret the theme of “play and imagination” in their work, especially in relation to intergenerational engagement and creating spaces for both adults and children to be playful and imaginative.
● Experience: Previous experience in creating exhibitions or participatory art is beneficial.
Theme: Play and Imagine
How to apply:
Please send applications to dawn.stevens@richmondandwandsworth.gov.uk with the subject line: Play and Imagine 2026.
Submission Requirements:
Applicants must submit:
● Introduction through a CV or website link.
● Visual examples of past work.
● Initial ideas (max 100 words and/or 4 images) on how they would approach this theme.
Selection Process:
Artists will be selected based on:
● Initial concept and alignment with the gallery’s vision.
● A diverse range of backgrounds and experiences is encouraged, particularly from underrepresented communities.
Program Benefits:
● £20,000 (excluding VAT) for exhibition costs, including fees, materials, and technical support.
● Additional £3,000 for optional community workshops.
● £1,400 for the “Let’s Get Creative” event.
● Fundraising for up to £30k for additional exhibition elements.
Contact and Resources:
Tel: 02088316000
Email: info@orleanshousegallery.org
Website link:
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