The Black Swan Arts Open 2026

⚒️ The Showcase: The Black Swan Arts Open 2026

Category: The Showcase / National Mixed Media Exhibition & Art Prize

• The Opportunity: Black Swan Arts has officially launched its flagship open call exhibition for 2026. To celebrate 40 years at the heart of the regional contemporary art scene, this anniversary edition is designed to be its most ambitious yet, bringing together emerging and established artists from across the country.

• The "Lighthouse" Advantage: This is a true mixed-art competition. The curation panel explicitly welcomes submissions from artists and makers working across all disciplines and media—making it an exceptional platform for sculpture, mixed media, high-texture wall pieces, and traditional craft. The work is selected by an independent panel of top contemporary guest judges and curators.

• The Prizes/Benefits: Outstanding entries will be awarded substantial cash prizes, including a £1,500 First Prize supported by the world-renowned gallery Hauser & Wirth Somerset. Other major awards include the BSA Solo Show Award (granting a dedicated exhibition to a standout maker), the Lynda Pelly Under 30s Prize (£500), and specialized framing and exhibiting awards. All selected works will be displayed in the beautiful, historic Long Gallery at Black Swan Arts for a major public exhibition from August 8 to September 27, 2026.

• Maker Level: Open to all UK-based artists and makers, from emerging talent to seasoned professionals.

• Deadline: Friday 7th August 2026.

The "Gate-Crasher" Status:

• The Portal: The submission system and digital entry guidelines are fully live via their specialized portal at competition.blackswanarts.org.uk.

• Direct Action: Ensure your digital submission photos are high-resolution and taken against a neutral background to clearly emphasize the texture and physical depth of your mixed-media or sculptural work.

• The Setup Text: When entering your artwork description, bypass generic statements and define your material mastery clearly: "My work explores the intersection of raw structural forms and tactile surfaces. By blending distinctive physical media, this piece seeks to offer the 40th Anniversary Open audience a deep, tactile engagement with contemporary craftsmanship, designed specifically to hold its presence within a prominent gallery environment."

The stories behind my artwork, the opportunities in The Lighthouse, and the reflections of the Morning Muse are my ways of keeping the lamp lit for our creative community. These resources will always be free to access. If they have found you at the right time, consider fueling the forge to help keep the fire burning. Your support, in any amount, is deeply appreciated.