We are thrilled that the WTM open has returned in its physical format! The exhibition runs from Saturday 2 October 2021 – Sunday 30 January 2022, in the Worthing Musuem’s Main Gallery and Norwood Landing.
With 160 pieces across 2 galleries, WTM’s Open21 showcases an outstanding selection of work from amatuer and professional artists, of all ages, from across Sussex. The exhibition includes a huge range of work with diverse and contrasting styles, and a variety of different mediums including 3D sculpture and photography, alongside work in acrylic, oil, pencil and pen. It’s this diversity that makes the exhibition entirely unique and a must visit in Worthing this winter.
Curator Emma Walder says ‘We were unsure what the response would be this year with all that has happened, as well as the change from using printed entry forms to online. So I was pleased to see that we had well over 500 entries this year, and the work delivered has been as varied and diverse as it always has. The communities’ creative spirit is still as strong as ever!’
‘The selection day was as tough as always with many difficult decisions to be made by the judges who were artist Anthony Bennett, Carola del Mese (who was recently working with us as a historical metal conservator), and Joe Cox, (Creative Hub Assistant at Colonnade House – Worthing’s creative hub).
158 pieces of work were selected which is more than any previous open exhibition, and out of those 9 pieces were shortlisted by the judges and we felt that a further 2 pieces should also be selected as Curator’s choice. So I would encourage everyone to come and see this exhibition and be inspired to join us next time and enter the Open23. Regardless of whether your work is selected, the spirit and creativity is what really keeps this event and exhibition thriving.‘
The Open21 exhibition opened with a fantastic private view event on Friday 1 October, it was wonderful to welcome so many amatuer and professional artists from across Sussex into Worthing Museum and Gallery to celebrate this years brilliant submissions. Art Curator Emma Walder announced the Judge’s Shortlist and Curator’s choice winners, including overall winner Steve Carroll. The full shortlist can be seen here.