Get ready, art lovers! The Harris Open Exhibition is back in 2026 after a five-year break, and it's set to be bigger and better than ever! This beloved Preston tradition, which has been running for over 70 years, is a true celebration of creativity and community spirit.
The Harris Open isn't just an exhibition; it's a vibrant showcase of local talent, and it's all about making art accessible to everyone. That's why, in line with The Harris's mission, almost all submissions are welcome. The only exception? Content that's deemed offensive or inappropriate. This open-door policy ensures the exhibition truly reflects the diverse artistic landscape of Preston.
Ready to get involved? Entry forms will be available starting Monday, January 19th, at The Harris welcome desk and on their website. You'll find all the details you need to prepare your artwork for submission.
Who can participate? Anyone who lives, works, or studies within the PR1, PR2, PR3, or PR4 postcode areas can enter, regardless of age or artistic ability. And the best part? Entry is completely free for 2026! Each person can submit one artwork.
What kind of art is accepted? The Harris Open welcomes artists working in any medium. This includes:
- Drawing
- Painting
- Printmaking
- Photography
- Sculpture
- Digital art
- Film
- Sound art
- Fashion
- Illustration
- Experimental practices
- Traditional forms
- Sketchbooks
- Zines and works in progress
The 2026 exhibition promises to be as diverse and multifaceted as Preston itself, embracing a wide range of approaches, content, and styles.
Exciting news! The Harris is also excited to welcome and celebrate group entries this year. Confirmed submissions already include projects from Preston-based community groups like The Foxton Centre and Places for People.
But here's where it gets exciting: throughout the exhibition, visitors can enjoy a variety of free activities! These include artist-led workshops, celebrations for International Women's Day, and a networking event for exhibiting artists. And don't forget the People's Choice Award celebration!
And this is the part most people miss: this year, there are new selling opportunities for artists. You can choose to sell your artwork, and for the first time, The Harris Open will feature a pop-up shop offering artist-designed merchandise like prints, apparel, and jewelry.
Important Dates for Your Diary:
All artworks must be hand-delivered to Gallery One, located on the second floor of The Harris, during one of the following hand-in sessions:
- Tuesday, February 3rd, 1 pm - 4:30 pm
- Thursday, February 5th, 5 pm - 9 pm
- Saturday, February 7th, 10 am - 4 pm
The Harris Open Exhibition will open to the public at 1 pm on Saturday, February 21st, 2026.
Councillor Hindle, Cabinet Member for Culture and Arts at Preston City Council, summed it up perfectly: "For over 70 years, The Harris Open has been a cornerstone of Preston's cultural life. The exhibition's return in 2026 is a testament to the city's creativity, and we are proud to support this exciting platform for artists of all ages."
What do you think? Are you excited about the return of The Harris Open? What kind of art would you like to see featured? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
