Browse and buy from a huge variety of artworks by some the region’s top artistic talent.
The Bath Society of Artists Annual Open Exhibition has long been a highlight of Bath’s cultural calendar, bringing a vast array of artistic talent to the Victoria Art Gallery each year. You can browse and buy from a selection of fabulous paintings, drawings, prints, sculpture and mixed media works by some of the region’s top artists, at prices to suit every pocket. You can also vote for your favourite exhibit in the Public Choice Prize.
Each year, the Bath Society of Artists invites a prominent artist to display their works in the exhibition. This year's invited artist is sculptor Peter Randall-Page. His powerful and intricate sculptures are a highlight of the exhibition and provide an opportunity for visitors to engage with the work of one of contemporary art’s leading figures.
Now in its 119th year, the annual open exhibition invites artists to submit work at a traditional handing-in day where each piece is considered for display by an expert selection panel. This year’s show sets a new benchmark with a record-breaking 1,400 artworks submitted, culminating in a selection of almost 400 works hung in the gallery.
From painting and print to sculpture and mixed media, the exhibition offers an impressive diversity of artistic expression. Among the many highlights are a beautifully detailed rainbow of over 200 birds, a striking sculpted giraffe’s head and neck, and a surprising collage of a cat crafted from Tunnock’s teacake wrappers.
For the first time in the exhibition’s 119-year history, the Society has opened the exhibition to artists under the age of 18. A dedicated section in the small gallery has been created to showcase their vibrant and innovative contributions, with the youngest artist just 12 years old.
A panel of expert judges have selected a number of award-winning pieces from all submissions, and visitors have the chance to vote for their favourite work throughout the run of the exhibition in the Public Choice Prize. Except for two, all artworks on display are for sale, allowing art lovers and collectors to browse and purchase from the wide-ranging collection, with prices to suit every budget.
Andrew Lansley, Bath Society of Artists Chairman comments "We say it every year, but the quality of the work in this year’s exhibition is truly exceptional, reflecting the extraordinary breadth and talent in both this region and further afield. We are also delighted to include under 18 year olds for the first time, as it is a vital part of the Society’s mission to support and nurture creativity across all generations."
Bath Society of Artists 119th Annual Open Exhibition:
13 October 2024 to 11 January 2025
Victoria Art Gallery, Bridge Street, Bath, BA2 4AT
Book tickets: www.victoriagal.org.uk
For more about Bath Society of Artists please visit www.bsaorg.uk.