EXETER CONTEMPORARY OPEN CELEBRATES 20th year: introducing the artists
Published July 8, 2026
This September, Exeter Contemporary Open returns for its’ 20th year. From painting, sculpture, drawing and photography, this exhibition forms a major highlight of the South West’s cultural calendar as well as being a vital springboard for the careers of emerging artists.
Twelve contemporary visual artists have been selected from hundreds of entries, submitted by artists from across the UK, by a panel of industry specialists including Sid Motion (gallerist and curator), Martyn Cross (artist) and Phoenix Gallery Curator, Matt Burrows.
THIS YEARS SELECTED ARTISTS:
Piers Alsop | Nahraine Al-Khafaji | Adam Hedley | David Kefford | Dolly Kershaw
William Luz | Jan McCullough | Andrew Miller | Darren O'Brien | Nisaa Saeed Raja
The exhibition will launch with an RSVP preview and awards presentation on the evening of Thursday 10 September 2026, an event which is sponsored by long-term supporter Gravita.
The exhibiting artists are each in the running for the £1000 Overall Award and £500 additional Award as well as the £250 Audience Choice Award, which will be voted for by exhibition visitors over the course of the exhibition, which runs until Saturday 31 October.
Our Sponsor Reflects on 20 Years of the Exeter Contemporary Open
We're incredibly proud to be celebrating 20 years of sponsorship of the Exeter Contemporary Open. Over the past two decades, we've seen enormous change in our firm, in the wider economy, and in the communities we serve. Yet throughout that time, one thing has remained constant, our commitment to supporting the people and places around us.
The Exeter Contemporary Open has become a vital platform for emerging and established artists alike, enriching the cultural life of Exeter, and creating opportunities for creative talent to be recognised and celebrated. As a business with deep roots in the local community, we're honoured to have played a small part in contributing to its success over the last 20 years.
Supporting the arts and the not-for-profit sector is more than sponsorship, it's also about investing in the long-term vitality of our communities. We believe that thriving local organisations, cultural institutions and creative initiatives help build stronger, more connected places for everyone. We're excited to attend this year's exhibition, meet the finalists and see first-hand the outstanding talent and creativity that continue to make the Exeter Contemporary Open such a special event
— Helen Gale, Private Client Partner at exhibition sponsor Gravita
The exhibition will run from Thurs 10 Sep – Sat 31 Oct.
Entry to Exeter Phoenix’s gallery spaces is free! Find our more about the exhibition by visiting www.exetercontemporaryopen.com.