20-21 Open Exhibition 2026

The 20-21 Open Exhibition is one of the highlights of our exhibition programme. Returning by popular demand in 2026, the exhibition showcases the very best paintings, drawings, sculptures, photographs and moving-image artworks from across the region.

Our Open Exhibition returns in 2026, and we will once again be inviting artists and makers to submit their artworks to be part of the show!

Always one of the highlights of our programme, this year we celebrate 25 years of great art by artists from the region with the return of our Open Exhibition.

Anyone over the age of 16 living, or with a studio within the Humber and Lincolnshire region (DN, LN or HU postcode areas) can enter. Each person can submit up to three artworks for the exhibition.

Our independent judges will curate the exhibition from our submissions and select the prize-winners. A prize of £1000 plus an opportunity of a solo exhibition here at 20-21 will be on offer for the overall winner!

Runners-up will receive prizes sponsored by local businesses, including a cash prize for our visitors’ favourite in our popular ‘Visitors’ Choice’ award.

Keep an eye on our social media or sign up to our mailing list at the bottom of this page, to be the first to be notified when application forms, including further details of our judges and sponsors, are available.

Key Dates:

Handing in (at 20-21 Visual Arts Centre):          

31 October to 7 November 2026

Preview and Awards Night:                                   

13 November 2026 6pm to 9pm

Exhibition Dates:                                                      

14 November 2026 to 20 February 2027