Open Call for Exhibition Commission (UK)

This is an opportunity for an artist to realise a project with the support of Modern Painters, New Decorators as part of their new exhibition programme focusing on folk cultures and ecology. The project will be the very first exhibition presented in their new gallery space and arts venue in Loughborough, East Midlands, opening in September 2025. They want to invest their time, energy and resources into an ambitious proposal which supports an artist’s practice by developing new work or realising ideas which would not otherwise be possible.

This project will feature alongside a 12-month programme that will broaden their work around placemaking, reframed through ecology, story-telling and connection. Public outcomes will take place from 5th September to 1st November 2025 and will open alongside their new arts venue, which will house an exhibition space, project space, studios, shop and micro-bakery.

Theme

• The theme for this project is folk cultures and ecology.
• Their theme is open and cross-cultural, expansively exploring folk cultures. It is specific to their locality by Charnwood Forest and the River Soar, sites of mythic, prehistoric, industrial and future importance. All submissions to the open call should expand on this theme.

Benefits

• Curatorial and installation support from the Modern Painters, New Decorators team.
• Marketing, documentation and additional wrap-around administration.
• An interview published with Young Artists in Conversation.

Funding Information

• The successful proposal will receive:
  • £1,500 artists fee
  • Up to £1,000 for production and other costs related to making the project including materials, fabrication, travel, accommodation and transport.

Eligibility Criteria

• This opportunity is for artists of African heritage, living, working or studying in the UK.
• Proposals for solo or group projects are welcome but if you work as part of a duo or group the fee must be shared. Existing work may be exhibited, but they expect the majority of the application to form a new commission.
• They are keen to support artists to apply and welcome conversations with artists around access needs. If you would like to discuss any access needs in advance of applying please email them to arrange a chat.

For more information, visit Modern Painters, New Decorators.