Shape Open

The Shape Open is our annual exhibition of artwork by disabled and non-disabled artists created in response to a disability-centred theme. Held in high-profile, artist-led spaces such as Bow Arts' Nunnery Gallery, Portobello Gallery, Yinka Shonibare's Guest Projects and our own pop-up galleries, The Open provides a space where disabled and non-disabled artists can discuss and exchange views and ideas about issues and topics which are often sidelined within artistic debate.

Any artist can apply to our yearly call for submissions and exhibitors are selected by a panel of arts industry judges, including Shape Open patron Yinka Shonibare MBE.

The Shape Open provides a fantastic platform for disabled artists to show their work. Such exhibitions offer great opportunities for artists to be discovered by institutions and larger audiences.

- Yinka Shonibare MBE

The Shape Open creates an opportunity for emerging and mid-career artists to raise their profile while allowing established artists taking part to show their work alongside new and fresh perspectives that they may not ordinarily encounter.

To stay up-to-date with news, opportunities and events relating to the Shape Open, including the annual call for submissions, sign up to our monthly e-newsletter at the bottom of this page. For any other enquiries about the Open, please email [email protected] or contact 0207 424 7330.

Banner image (crop of): Strangers by Carly Jayne (2014 Shape Open Prize Winner)