Yep, it’s that time of year again as preparations are underway for the 2010 Annual Open exhibition at Nottingham Castle. 

We spoke to Tristram Aver,  Exhibitions Officer at the Castle:

“It is often a misconception that The Open is predominantly a Fine Arts exhibition.   Each year there is an impressive work from makers who often push the boundaries of their craft, and we want to highlight such talent in this prestigious and high profile exhibition – showcasing the cream of East Midlands artists.”

So now’s your chance to get involved and show off your artwork and products!

You can collect application forms from our boutique ‘Get Made’ on St.James Street next to the Malt Cross or contact Tristram here: tristram.aver[at]nottinghamcity.gov.uk

FURTHER INFORMATION:

With more spaces and more prizes than ever!

In partnership with New Art Exchange

The 23 January 2010 sees the launch of an extra special Nottingham Castle Open to celebrate the creativity of the East Midland’s artists and makers.  For many years, the Open has thrown a spotlight on some of the talented artists that live and work in our community. However, with more space and more prizes than ever, 2010′s Open promises to be an even bigger visual feast. Put the date in your diary to come and see the talent on your doorstep – or take part your self by requesting an application form (available from October 2009; Tel. 0115 915 3655 for further details).

Download Application Form Here Application Form Nottingham Open 2010 [239kb]

PRIZES

• 1 x £1,500 grand prize, and 4 x £250 runners-up cash prizes (work in any medium)
  5 artists will be short listed for this prize by the selection panel.
  ALL EXHIBITING ARTISTS (those with successful applications for 2010) will vote for an overall winner by secret ballot. All artists selected for the Open must attend a preview evening on Friday 22nd January 2010, 6pm to 7pm in order to cast their vote. The winner will be announced later in the evening at the official private view opening between 7pm and 9pm. in order to cast their vote, and the winner will be announced later in the evening at the official private view opening between 7 and 9pm.
  4 finalist runners-up will receive £250 for their short-list nomination. 

• Solo exhibition at Nottingham Castle
  (The winner will be selected by Nottingham Castle’s Visual Arts Team).

• Solo exhibition at New Art Exchange
  (The winner of this prize will be selected by New Art Exchange to reflect the aims of their organisation).

• The Robinson Painting Prize – £200 cash prize for painting.
  (The winner will be selected by a representative of Ian Robinson Designs).

• £200 worth of John E Wright goods (fine art & graphic materials) or services (a wide range of printing solutions).
  (The winner will be selected by Adrian Nicholls, Group Commercial & Marketing Manager). www.johnewright.com

• People’s Panel Prize – details TBC

This year’s panel will be made up of:

Gordon Cheung (Artist) – A renowned and successful painter who has exhibited internationally and featured in the largest and most ambitious survey of recent art from the UK, The British Art Show 6 (at Nottingham Castle in 2006) and featured in the prestigious The John Moores Painting Prize 24.

Shelly Goldsmith (Textile Artist) – Goldsmith is amongst the foremost of artists working with textiles in the UK at the present time.  In 2002 she was awarded the prestigious Jerwood Prize for textiles, she exhibits globally (including the US and Japan) and is ‘Maker Trustee’ for the Crafts Council of England.

Sheila McGregor (Chief Executive, Axis) – Sheila is responsible for the artistic and strategic direction of Axis. www.axisweb.org is the best online resource for information about contemporary art. The website features profiles of professional artists and curators, interviews, discussions, art news, debates and showcases the artists to watch. Fri 20th November 2009

Application deadline
Friday 20th November 2009