RISE OPEN 2026 - call for submissions
RISE OPEN 2026 is now open for submissions from visual artists under 25 living in Dumfries & Galloway. This is a FREE opportunity for emerging artists working across 2D and 3D visual art.
Shortlisted artists will be invited to exhibit as part of a group exhibition at CatStrand in October 2026.
At the exhibition launch, there will be two awards announced:
RISE OPEN 2026 Winner - The winner will receive a solo exhibition in 2027, mentorship in the lead-up to the exhibition, and a £500 bursary towards their solo exhibition.
A People’s Choice Award winner will also be awarded on the night.
To submit, please email one PDF to: catherine@catstrand.com
Your PDF should include:
Your name
Your contact details
A short artist statement
A maximum of 3 entries
Up to 3 images of your work. For each work: title, date created, medium and a short description/about the work
Work must be available to exhibit on the dates (1st November - 18th December 2026) if selected.
All entries will be shared on the RISE social media pages.
RISE OPEN 2026 is supported by Glenkens Community & Arts Trust, funded by Holywood Trust as part of CatStrand Creatives.