Beverley Art Gallery in the East Riding of Yorkshire will launch its 24th annual Open Art Exhibition on 27 September 2025. A record 300+ artists submitted works, with 126 pieces selected by jurors Sarah Howard of Hull Museums and Ferens Art Gallery and Andrea Martin of Lincoln Museum and Usher Gallery. The show features a range of mediums from professional and amateur artists, with prizes awarded by the Friends of Beverley Art Gallery and a People's Choice Award voted by visitors. Many works are available for purchase, and the exhibition runs until 18 December.
This exhibition matters because it highlights the strength of regional creative communities in the UK, providing a vital platform for local artists to gain exposure and sell their work. The record number of submissions and the involvement of respected curators from major regional museums underscore the growing importance of open-call exhibitions in fostering grassroots art scenes. The event also supports the local economy by attracting visitors and offering unique art for holiday shopping, reinforcing the role of small public galleries in cultural life.