The Tony Viney Open Art Award for 2026

We are delighted to launch our inaugural Tony Viney Open Art Award with an exhibition and prizes later in the Spring.  Tony Viney, as many of you will know, was the inspirational driving force behind much of Purbeck’s art infrastructure, and founded Sandy Hill Arts after saving the site from development.

This Open Call welcomes all Visual Artists who live and work in Dorset. Whether you’re emerging, mid-career, or established, don’t let the deadline pass you by – apply, connect, and put your work out there now as part of Dorset’s thriving artist community.  Dorset artists are invited to participate through this, the first of our annual open call competitions dedicated to discovering emerging voices and prompting critical engagement and artistic growth. We aim to create an platform where artists at any stage of their career can showcase their work, share their perspectives, and engage with a supportive art community.

Some 30 artists will be selected to show one piece of work during the exhibition.  The judges will award a main prize of £250, and two smaller prizes of £75. Everyone accepted is a finalist, with a final shortlist for prizes.

See link for submission details – applications must be received by 15/3/26.