Artist: Lucy Threlfall

 

Yardley Arts Summer Open 2026

An exhibition of contemporary fine art, painting and sculpture

Key Exhibition Details

Open for entries: 12 February – 12 May 2026

Exhibition dates: 25 June – 19 July 2026

Exhibition opening times: Thursday – Sunday 11am – 5pm

Why submit your work?

  • Be part of one of the region’s most exciting art showcases

  • Exhibit in a professionally curated space with strong visitor engagement

  • Online gallery showing all artworks to maximise sales and visibility

  • Exposure to high-profile panel of judges

  • Gain access to buyers, collectors and the media

  • Compete for prizes and awards recognising outstanding work

How to enter

Online submissions for the Yardley Arts Summer Open 2026 will open here on 12 February 2026.

Selection panel

  • Anthony Spira is Director of MK Gallery (2009), having been curator at the Whitechapel Gallery, London and the Jeu de Paume, Paris.

  • David Mach RA is a renowned Scottish sculptor, collagist, and installation artist. he became a Royal Academician (RA) in 1998, was nominated for the Turner Prize in 1988, and served as Professor of Sculpture at the Royal Academy of Arts Schools from 2000.

  • Amanda Lowther & Louise Newton of The British Art Portfolio, (est. 2011) representing both contemporary & 19th century modern British art and sculpture in their Northamptonshire gallery.

More about the exhibition

Yardley Arts Summer Open 2026 is a major new exhibition celebrating the very best of contemporary art. Taking place from 25 June – 19 July 2026, this open-call exhibition invites artists from across the UK to submit 2D and 3D works for selection by a panel of respected art professionals.

Now in its ninth year, Yardley Arts has become a vibrant hub in Yardley Hastings, Northamptonshire – a place where creativity, community and culture meet. From our charming converted Victorian building, we’ve nurtured local talent, hosted inspiring exhibitions and welcomed thousands of visitors who share our passion for art in all its forms.

The Yardley Arts Summer Open 2026 marks an exciting new chapter. Selected artworks will be displayed in our bright, contemporary gallery space and in our newly developed sculpture garden, offering artists an inspirational setting and broad public exposure. The exhibition will open with a special Awards Reception, shining a spotlight on creativity and innovation.

As part of the exhibition, we will also take part in the popular Yardley Hastings Open Gardens event on Sunday 28th June 2026, featuring artists working live in participating gardens offering a perfect blend of art, nature and community spirit.

Expected visitor numbers: over 2,500 in person and over 10,000 online.