Three Counties Open Exhibition 2026 - Submissions Call Out Launch Event

Monday 13 April 2026 · 6:30pm–8:00pm
Chancellor’s Building, Keele University

The Three Counties Open Art Exhibition is back, and 2026 marks a major milestone: 30 years of creativity, community, and artistic excellence across Staffordshire, Cheshire, and Shropshire. To celebrate the launch of this year’s submissions window, we’re hosting a special evening designed to inspire, connect, and kick‑start your creative journey.

Join us for an uplifting and social event set within the vibrant NEW/NOW/NEXT exhibition in the Chancellor’s Building at Keele University. The perfect backdrop for an evening of art, conversation, and new possibilities.

What to Expect

A First Look at the 2026 Open Call.
Be among the first to hear about this year’s Three Counties Open Exhibition, taking place once again in the beautifully restored Ballroom at Fenton Town Hall, courtesy of our partners at Restoke. Learn about key dates, how to submit your work, and what’s new for the 30th anniversary year.

Network with Fellow Artists.
This event is a fantastic opportunity to meet other creatives from across the region, including many who have exhibited in previous Three Counties shows. Whether you’re a first‑time entrant or a returning artist, you’ll find a welcoming community ready to share experiences, ideas, and inspiration.

Live Music & Refreshments.
Enjoy a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with complimentary refreshments and live music throughout the evening. Take your time, explore the exhibition, and connect with others who share your passion for making and experiencing art.

Hosted Within the NEW/NOW/NEXT Exhibition.
The Chancellor’s Building is currently home to NEW/NOW/NEXT: Contemporary Works from Three Counties Creatives, a showcase of new work by artists who took part in the 2025 Three Counties Open. This dynamic exhibition celebrates innovation, imagination, and the evolving creative landscape of our region, the perfect setting for launching the next chapter.

About the Three Counties Open Art Exhibition.

The Three Counties Open is an annual open‑call exhibition celebrating artists connected to Staffordshire, Cheshire, and Shropshire.

Entry is free, and artists working in all visual media are encouraged to submit, including:

• Painting
• Printmaking
• Drawing
• Photography
• Sculpture
• Textiles
• Moving image
• Installation‑based work

The 2026 exhibition will run Saturday 8 August – Saturday 29 August 2026 at Fenton Town Hall. Artist workshops and a residency will once again accompany the exhibition — expressions of interest are warmly welcomed.

Key Date: Submission Window Opens Monday 13 April 2026, 7pm.

Whether you’re preparing your first submission or returning with new work, this launch event is the ideal moment to gather information, ask questions, and feel part of the wider Three Counties community.

Event Location: Chancellor’s Building A, Keele University Campus (Hosted within the NEW/NOW/NEXT exhibition).

Parking: Free on campus after 5pm.

Accessibility: Chancellor’s Building is fully accessible with nearby disabled parking bays.

NOTE: If you wish to make more of an evening of it, our current exhibiting artist at Chapters Cafe is offering a drop in workshop and chance to take a look at the exhibition from 5:30pm. More information here: Flowers & Meaning: A Mixed Media Workshop

Join Us!

Come along for an evening of creativity, conversation, and celebration as we open submissions for the 30th anniversary Three Counties Open Exhibition. Colleagues will be on hand to answer any questions you have about entering the exhibition. 

Meet fellow artists, enjoy live music, explore the exhibition, and get inspired to submit your work for 2026.

We can’t wait to welcome you.

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