Organizer Information
Guildford House Gallery invites UK-based artists to participate in the second edition of its prestigious art prize. The gallery is dedicated to presenting high-quality contemporary art across diverse media, providing a professional platform for both 2D and 3D practitioners.
Title & Description
The Guildford House Open 2026.
This open call has no set theme, aiming to showcase the best in contemporary practice. Up to 100 works will be selected for a major group exhibition. The program emphasizes originality and technical excellence, culminating in significant awards for the winning participants.
Categories
All Mediums are welcome, including Painting, Sculpture, Drawing, Photography, Moving Image, Print, Textile, and Mixed Media.
Eligibility
- Location: Must be a resident in the UK. International applications are not accepted.
- Age: 18 or over.
- Work Requirements: Exhibits must be original and produced within the last three years.
- Sales: All works must be available for sale during the exhibition.
- Restrictions: No Giclée reproductions or copies of original works in other media are permitted.
- Weight Limit: Works must not exceed 18kg.
Program Benefits and Awards
- Main Prize: £1,000 cash prize plus a solo exhibition at Guildford House Gallery.
- Printmaking Today Prize: An editorial feature in Printmaking Today magazine.
- People's Choice Award: £500 awarded by popular vote at the end of the show.
- Exhibition: Inclusion in a curated group show from November 2026 to February 2027.
Fees
- First Submission: £15.
- Additional Artworks: £10 each.
- Maximum Entry: Up to 4 artworks per artist.
Application Requirements
- Digital Submission: Registration and completion of an online form.
- Images: Files must be under 5MB (JPEG, JPG, or PNG).
- Details: Title, dimensions, medium, and price for each piece.
- Dimensions: 2D works max 2.4m on the longest side; 3D works max 50cm on the longest side.
How to Apply?
Submit your entry through the official ArtOpps portal. You may edit your entry at any time until the final deadline. Apply here.
Key Dates
- Submission Deadline: September 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM.
- Results Released: October 16, 2026.
- Delivery of Work: November 5–7, 2026.
- Public Exhibition: November 21, 2026 – February 27, 2027.
Location
United Kingdom, Guildford (Guildford House Gallery).
Additional Details
The distinguished judging panel includes Natasha Michaels, Jane Ponsford, Richard McVetis, EVEWRIGHT, and Leonie Bradley. Selected artists are responsible for delivery and insurance of their own work.