The Tony Viney Open Art Award Exhibition 2026

We are delighted to launch the inaugural Tony Viney Open Art Award with this exhibition of seventeen selected artists at Room 14. 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 was an Open Call to all Visual Artists who live and work in Dorset, emerging, mid-career, or established. From the many and diverse entries the judges carefully selected  the shortlist presented at this exhibition, the first of in what will be an  annual open call competitions dedicated to discovering emerging voices and prompting critical engagement and artistic growth. We aim to create a platform where artists at any stage of their career can showcase their work, share their perspectives, and engage with a supportive art community.

The exhibition will run from the 25th April- 7th May. The Private View will take place on Sunday 26th April 4-6pm during which the winner of the inaugural Tony Viney Open Art Award will be announced.