The Harley Open 2026 features 138 artworks by artists, makers and heritage craft practitioners from across the region. The exhibition will be on show at the Harley Gallery on the historic Welbeck Estate, from 19th September 2026 until 3rd January 2027.
This year’s exhibition celebrates the breadth of creativity found within 100 miles of the gallery. For the first time, the Harley Open actively encouraged applications from heritage craft practitioners and welcomed submissions of freestanding work, resulting in the most diverse exhibition in the event’s history.
Alongside contemporary artworks including painting, photography and sculpture, visitors will discover works created using heritage craft skills, including more than 15 craft skills currently considered endangered or critically endangered in the UK.
From canal art and clog making to oil painting and pottery, the Harley Open brings together artworks and objects that don’t typically sit side by side for an exhibition which celebrates making in all its forms.
More than 700 entries were submitted to the open competition. The final selection of 138 artworks was chosen by a panel comprising Bryony Bond, Director of the Harley Foundation; art historian, broadcaster and author James Fox; and Joe Hill, Director and CEO of Yorkshire Sculpture Park.
The judges’ work is not yet complete. They will select the recipient of the The Judges’ Prize of £3,000 sponsored by the Harley Foundation, which will be announced at the exhibition opening. Visitors will also be invited to vote for their favourite artwork, with the winner receiving the People’s Prize of £1,000 sponsored by Welbeck Estates Company.
A further prize is sponsored by Welbeck Abbey Brewery. The winning artwork will appear on a limited-edition beer label sold exclusively in the Welbeck Farm Shop, and the artist will receive a case of the beer (12 × 500ml bottles).
For more information see http://www.harleyfoundation.org.uk.