South Downs Open at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery

The South Downs is a region steeped in rich history, landscapes, art, literature and home to an inspiring community of artists. Join us in celebrating all that it means to live, work and be inspired by the South Downs. 

Call to Artists

The South Downs Open invites submissions from all artists, amateur and professional, who respond to the South Downs as inspiration. You do not need to live or work in the region, but we do ask that the work you submit connects in some way to the South Downs, whether that is its landscape, its history, the experience of living or working in the region, memories of visits, or how it inspires you to think and feel.  

You can submit up to two artworks, we accept paintings, prints, drawings, sculptures, ceramics, textiles, photographs or text art. Around 75 artworks will be selected and shown to stunning effect in Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery’s award-winning galleries. 

Submission Fee
  • Over 18 (£10 non-refundable submission fee)
  • Under 18 (Free, but Application Form still required)

Application Process

Interested in applying? Download the South Downs Open Details and Terms & Conditions for more information and begin your application process:

  1. Book here. Under 18 (free, booking still required) and Over 18 (£10 per arwork, non-refundable).
  2. Once the submission is booked, you will be sent a link via email where you can download the Application Form.
  3. Email your completed Application Form and attach an image (.jpg) of your artwork to southdownsopen@petersfieldmuseum.co.uk with the subject line: South Downs Open Submission: Artist Name.

If your work is selected, we will be in contact by 6 September 2024. If you have any questions, contact us at southdownsopen@petersfieldmuseum.co.uk.

Open Details

Artists may submit up to two artworks, we accept paintings, prints, drawings, sculptures, ceramics, textiles, photographs or text art. 

All works in the Over 18 category must be for sale unless the artist requests otherwise. 

For all information, including size and display requirements, please download the South Downs Open Details and Terms & Conditions.

Meet the Panel

Alison Crowther - Contemporary sculptor working in English oak based in the South Downs, West Sussex. 

Tiffany Francis–Baker - Hampshire author and illustrator of books inspired by landscape, the changing seasons and a slower, more creative way of living in the modern age. 

Louise Weller – Head of Collections and Exhibitions at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery. 

Awards
  • The Over 18 winner will be offered the opportunity of an exhibition in the Flora Twort Gallery at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery for a minimum length of 1 month to be held in 2026.
  • The Under 18 winner will receive a voucher £50 from Jackson’s Art Supplies.
  • The Under 11 winner will receive a voucher £25 from Jackson’s Art Supplies.

Winners of the above categories will be announced on 22 October 2024 on our website and social media.

  • People’s Choice Award (Over 18 category only)

During the run of the exhibition, visitors can vote for their favourite entry in the Over 18 category, the winner of which will receive the People’s Choice Award of £250. 

Winner of the People’s Choice Award will be announced at the end of the exhibition on our website and social media.

Key Dates
  • 30 August 2024, 5pm (BST) : Online submission deadline
  • 6 September 2024: Shortlisted artists notified by email
  • 9 September 2024: List of exhibiting artists published on website
  • 14-15 October 2024: Delivery of artwork to Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery
  • 22 October 2024: South Downs Open exhibition opens with evening event for artists
  • 1 February 2025: South Downs Open exhibition closes 
  • 5-6 February 2025: Collection of work from Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery
Contact

If you have any questions, contact us at southdownsopen@petersfieldmuseum.co.uk.

South Downs Open Details and Terms & Conditions Download