Organizer Information

HOME Manchester is a leading arts and culture center in Greater Manchester, UK, dedicated to showcasing and supporting local creative talent. The Manchester Open exhibition is a biennial event celebrating the diversity and quality of artistic practice across the region, featuring a wide range of mediums and engaging both emerging and established artists. The program is supported by Arts Council England, Manchester City Council, the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, and several charitable trusts including Oglesby Charitable Trust, The Brian Mercer Trust, and Granada Foundation.

Title & Description

Artist Call: Manchester Open 2026
HOME invites individual artists, graduates, students, and groups to submit work for Manchester Open 2026, a large-scale exhibition celebrating Greater Manchester’s creative talent. The exhibition will be held from 20 June to 6 September 2026, in HOME’s main gallery, showcasing up to 450 works selected by a panel of art experts and community representatives. Accepted works may include Painting, Drawing/Print, Photography, Sculpture/Installation, Digital/Moving Image, Textiles, and Ceramics/Glass. Artists are encouraged to present original and innovative pieces, creating a diverse and engaging exhibition experience for the public.

Categories

Visual Arts, Public Art, Installation, Site-specific, Fiber/Textile Art, Painting, Drawing, Printmaking, Photography, Digital, Ceramics, Mixed Media

Eligibility

  • Open to individual artists, students, graduates, and artist groups.
  • Artists must be 18 or over (submissions for under 18 permitted via parent/guardian).
  • Open to all levels of experience – emerging, mid-career, and established practitioners.
  • Artists must be based in or have connections to Greater Manchester, though applications from outside are accepted.

Program Benefits & Awards

  • Exhibition in HOME Manchester’s main gallery as part of a major regional showcase.
  • Selection for up to 450 works.
  • Manchester Open Awards: artist development packages (via Castlefield Gallery and HOME).
  • HOME Award: solo exhibition opportunity in Granada Foundation Galleries.
  • People’s Prize: gallery visitors vote for their favorite artwork.

Application Fee

None

Application Requirements

  • High-quality images of the artwork.
  • Artist statement and description of the submitted work.
  • Pricing details for artwork intended for sale (optional).

How to Apply?

Online Application

Key Dates

  • Application Deadline: 19 Feb 2026
  • Selection Panel Announcement: Spring 2026
  • Exhibition: 20 Jun – 6 Sep 2026

Location

HOME Main Gallery, Manchester, United Kingdom

Additional Details

  • Submissions will be reviewed by a panel consisting of art experts and community representatives.
  • Selected artworks must adhere to submission guidelines and any installation requirements.
  • Artists are responsible for delivering their works according to the portal instructions; exhibition setup is managed by HOME staff.
  • Online guidance, including photography tips and pricing guidance, is available.

Website Link: https://homemcr.org/whats-on/manchesteropen2026-rslt