Submissions Guidelines

The Festival is back for its eighth year and both the Contemporary Open and the Photography Open will be held at Warrington Museum & Art Gallery.

The exhibition is open to all artists in a 50 mile radius whether professional, amateur or student.

Selection

Selection will be made by the Festival Team and guest judge(s). The selectors’ decision is final and no discussion will be entered into. Entrants will be advised by email of the outcome of the selection and can expect to hear from us mid-September. No information will be given over the phone concerning the outcome of entry. The Festival Team has the right to refuse work deemed to be hazardous or inappropriate for display.

Packaging and delivering your work if it is selected

Either Friday 21 or Saturday 22 September, between 10am-4pm, to: Warrington Museum & Art Gallery, Museum Street, Warrington, WA1 1JB

If you are unable to deliver during these dates please contact us

Framing

All two dimensional works entered must be fitted with suitable fittings: metal mirror plates facing outwards. Mirror plates can be purchased from most hardware and DIY stores.

hanging guidance

For textiles, mirror plates may be fixed to a baton. Please note artworks in metal frames, clip frames and unframed two dimensional works without mirror plates will not be accepted.

For all 3D work that requires a plinth for display, the plinth must be provided by the artist. The plinth must be painted white and in good condition. Digital works are welcome but we have limited space; artists must provide all necessary equipment such as projectors.

Packaging

Artworks should be handed in unpackaged, with the mirror plates covered in paper to prevent damage to other works. For delicate 3D objects, please place works in a box or bubble wrap, please do not use excessive packaging or taping. Please ensure your name is on the outside of this packaging, so we can return works safely.

Work must be delivered and collected on the days and between the times specified. You may arrange for someone else to deliver / collect your work. Works sent by post or carrier will not be accepted.

Labels

Labels are compiled from the information given on your entry form.  Please attach an additional hanging label to your artwork, with your name, title and price.  This label should be attached with a piece of string long enough to hang over the top of the artwork. Please label TOP to indicate how the work is to be displayed.

Insurance

All works entered should, if the artist feels it is required, be insured by the artist against loss or damage whilst at the venue. Warrington Contemporary Arts Festival cannot be held liable for any loss or damage to work or frames however caused.

Sales

A commission of 30%  VAT will be deducted from all sold work. Payment for work sold will be processed after the Festival ends.

Prizes

First Prize: £2000 plus a solo exhibition in 2019. The winner will be announced on the opening night.

Dates to remember

  • WCAF18 Opening night and preview: Friday 28 September, multiple venues, 5-9pm
  • Exhibitions on show to public: Saturday 29 September to Sunday 11 November 2018
  • Artists to collect work mid November, dates TBC (artists will be contacted with more information in advance)