The South Downs are a muse for many with the meandering chalk hills, billowing grass and lowlands, ancient woodlands surrounding market towns and framed with a dramatic coastline. Stretching from Hampshire to Sussex, artists and writers have for centuries responded to the light and the landscape.
Home to Jane Austen and Virginia Woolf and a country escape for J.M.W. Turner, the South Downs continues to inspire today with a broad community of artists choosing to live, work and respond to the many aspects of the South Downs—from open landscapes, private spaces and the very material that defines it.
Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery celebrates the history, landscape, and creative community of artists with the South Downs Open 22 October 2024 - 1 February 2025.
All artists inspired by this region are encouraged to apply by 30 August 2024 (5pm BST).
The exhibition will be hosted in the award-winning galleries of Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery located in Petersfield, East Hampshire.
"We invite artists, amateur and professional, to share your connection to the South Downs. Whether your inspiration is its landscape, its history, the experience of living or working in the region, memories of visits, or how it inspires you to think and feel."
- Louise Weller, Head of Collections and Exhibitions at Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery.
Details
Artists are encouraged to submit up to two artworks (new or existing) in various mediums, including paintings, prints, drawings, sculptures, ceramics, textiles, or text art. Submissions for artists over 18 are £10 per artwork (non-refundable), while submissions for young artists under 18 are free (booking still required). A distinguished panel, featuring contemporary sculptor Alison Crowther, author and illustrator Tiffany-Francis-Baker and curator Louise Weller, will select approximately 75 artworks for display.
“The South Downs Open developed out of the idea of sharing the creativity and supporting the artists inspired by this region as an amazing way to finish our 25-year anniversary celebrations.” - Dan McWilliam, Director of Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery
Awards
The panel will award the Over 18 winner the opportunity of a solo exhibition in the Flora Twort Gallery in 2026. Under 18 and Under 11 winners will receive vouchers from Jackson’s Art Supplies. Visitors will also have the chance to vote for the People’s Choice Award (Over 18 category), with the winning artist receiving a cash prize of £250.
Share the South Downs Open
Join us in celebrating all that it means to live, work and be inspired by the South Downs by sharing on social media and tagging Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery!
- Snap a sneak peek of your work on Instagram or use our South Downs Open post and tag @petersfieldmuseum with the hashtag #SouthDownsOpen.
- Share how the South Downs inspire you on Facebook or use our South Downs Open post and tag @petersfieldmuseum.
- Get the word out on X and tag @PfieldMuseum with the hashtag #SouthDownsOpen.
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Find out more
For more information and how to submit your artwork, visit South Downs Open: Call to Artists on our website.