Artists from across the North East are invited to submit work for this year’s Spotlight: Washington Open Exhibition.
Arts Centre Washington (ACW) has issued the call for its annual exhibition, running from November 12, 2026 to January 16, 2027.
The theme for 2026 is "Belonging."
The exhibition will showcase work that explores identity, community, place, connection and home.
Daniel Appleby, project co-ordinator at Arts Centre Washington, said: "Spotlight provides a fantastic opportunity for artists from across the North East to share their work with new audiences and become part of a vibrant exhibition celebrating the creativity of our region.
"We are particularly excited to see how artists interpret this year's theme of ‘Belonging’, a subject that feels especially relevant as people reflect on identity, community and connection.
"Whether you're an experienced exhibiting artist or showing your work for the first time, we'd encourage you to apply."
The exhibition is open to artists at all stages of their careers, from emerging and amateur artists to established professionals.
A wide range of media will be considered, including drawing, painting, photography, sculpture, textiles, ceramics, glass and moving image.
There is no submission or exhibition fee.
Selected artists will have the opportunity to sell their work and connect with new audiences.
Each artist will also gain valuable exhibition experience.
One artist will be selected for a solo exhibition at Arts Centre Washington in 2027.
The winner will be announced on January 8, 2027.
Selection will be made by a panel of Arts Centre Washington staff.
Visitor feedback, both in the gallery and online, will also be taken into account.
The exhibition opening event takes place at Arts Centre Washington on Thursday, November 12, from 6pm to 8pm.
Artists based anywhere in the North East are eligible to apply.
The submission deadline is 5pm on Thursday, October 15.
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A youth edition of the exhibition, Bright Lights: Youth Arts Exhibition 2027, is open to artists aged 11 to 19.
Full eligibility guidelines and the online application form are available on the Sunderland Culture website.
More information can be found at www.sunderlandculture.org.uk/arts-centre-washington/spotlight-washington-open-exhibition-2026.
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