A major exhibition showcasing artworks by people from the North East has received more than 70,000 visits.

The Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art’s Open Submission exhibition, which closes on 22 September, includes work by self-taught artists and hobbyists from the region, with the ages of the selected artists ranging from 11 to 83.

The 104 artworks were selected by a panel of judges from a record 1,400 entries which were received after the gallery put out an open call for submissions in autumn last year.

“This is only the second time we’ve held an open call exhibition and we were blown away by the number of submissions and also the quality of the work.

“And that’s been reflected in the popularityof the exhibition as well – tens of thousands of people have visited and I hope it’s inspired them to perhaps create some artwork of their own.”

Sarah Munro MBE, Director of Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art

The youngest artist with work on show is street artist Terox, aged 11, whose spray paint artwork is inspired by the continuous movement of clouds after the rain stops, and who recently held his first solo exhibition in Newcastle upon Tyne.

One of the oldest artists included in the exhibition is 80-year-old former Chartered architect Paul W. Kelso, who was inspired by his daughter to apply.

The selected works were chosen by a panel including Niomi Fairweather, Baltic Curator and Rose McMurray, Baltic Curatorial Assistant; North East musician and lead singer with Maxïmo Park, Paul Smith; and performance, installation and film artist, Jasmina Cibic. They are on show alongside work by established artists, Phyllis Christopher, Holly Hendry and Jim Moir (aka Vic Reeves).

 “Supporting talent has always been a part ofour DNA at Fenwick with art and creativity being something our customers are truly passionate about. The quality of the works submitted for the exhibition havebeen outstanding and highlight some the brightest talent from the North East and the UK art scene today. We are incredibly proud to be part of showcasing artists’ creative journeys.”  

The exhibition is in association with Fenwick, and Leo Fenwick, Strategic Partnerships Director, Fenwick

The exhibition’s success follows the news that Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art was confirmed as the North East’s most popular free attraction in 2023 according to the annual attractions survey by Visit England – the official tourist board for England.

Find out more at www.baltic.art.


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