The Open – Leicester Museums

The Open has been celebrating East Midlands talent for over 30 years, giving all creative people a chance to showcase what they are doing - it is the people’s exhibition. It features over 200+ artists and makers and all artworks are for sale. The Open accepts artwork from adults, children and young people, making for a truly original and exciting show.

Prize Sponsors

In addition to the annual Attenborough prizes which are selected by a panel of independent judges, the following organisations and businesses have offered a selection of generous prizes. The sponsors’ prizes cover all the age categories and range from family theatre tickets and gift vouchers to solo exhibition opportunities and mentoring sessions designed to develop new talent. We are delighted to have each of these organisations on board to add this exciting aspect to the show. Sponsors select their favourite pieces, and each winning artist receives a certificate in addition to their prize at the Open’s preview evening for artists and their families.

This year’s sponsors include:

Arch Creative
Art House
Contemporary Visual Arts Network (CVAN) East Midlands
Curve
De Montfort Hall
LCB Depot
Leicester Gallery
Leicester Lo-Fi Photography
Leicester Museums and Galleries Development Trust
Leicester Print Workshop
Phoenix
Soft Touch Arts

Feeling Inspired?

Applications for 2024 are now closed.

If you have artwork that you would like to showcase in 2025 please join the museum mailing list to receive regular news and updates on all museum events as well as the annual Open submission dates.

Information for 2024 applicants:

Viewing a completed submission

For any technical help with using Zealous, please use the live chat on your Zealous account (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) or email Zealous: info@zealous.co

Hopefully, the Terms and Conditions provide all the information you require. If you have any further queries, please email: openexhibition@leicester.gov.uk

Useful information for applicants

Here you will find documents and guidance that will help you with your application. We have more information available in our Terms and Conditions and documents to help you present your work at its best.

Collecting your artwork

You must collect your artwork on:

Sunday 2nd February 2025, 11am – 3pm

Monday 3rd February 2025, 11am – 3pm

Information regarding how to collect your artwork from the museum will be available soon. Please check back periodically for updates. In the meantime, please read the Terms & Conditions for available information.