Montague Gallery in Worthing is thrilled to announce its Open25 Summer Exhibition, running from June 14th to June 29th, 2025.

The well established Montague Gallery already hosts over 40 resident artists in the Lower Gallery but this is an exclusive opportunity for other emerging and established Sussex artists, to take part in a carefully curated exhibition in our Upper Gallery at the heart of Worthing Town Centre for two weeks.

Without a predefined theme, artists are invited to explore boundless creativity, ensuring a rich tapestry of interpretations. embracing artistic diversity and community spirit.

Join us in discovering, displaying and celebrating local Sussex artistic talent, in this ‘Summer Exhibition’ that promises to be an enriching and rewarding experience for artists and enthusiasts alike.

Important Dates for Exhibitors

  • Notification of pre-selection: May 23rd
  • Further information may then be requested
  • Notification of final selection: June 1st
  • Private View and Awards: Friday 13th June 6pm – 8pm
  • Exhibition opens: Saturday 14th June 10am
  • Exhibition closes: Sunday 29th June, 4pm
  • Collection of unsold work:
    Sunday 29th June 4pm to 6pm
    Monday 30th June 10am to 12
    Wednesday 1st July 11am to 3pm

Framing and Display Requirements and Size Limits

  • Frames must be undamaged with D-Rings and cord.
  • Metal frames, clip frames, are inadmissible.
  • Hanging work should not be larger than 85cm along the longest dimension.
  • 2D Work: must be clearly labelled on the back with your name and the title of the work.THE NAME, THE PRICE AND TITLES ON YOUR LABELS MUST BE THE SAME AS THE NAME AND TITLE GIVEN ON THE SUBMISSION FORM. We cannot accept any work that does not have your name and title on it.  
  • 3D work : must be free standing or wall mounted and similarly labelled in a suitable place
  • All work must be available for sale

Failure to comply with the above may result in the artwork not being exhibited

  • There is a 25% commission payable on all sales

Judging

  • All submissions to the Montague OPEN25 Summer Exhibition are carefully reviewed through a two-stage judging process to ensure fairness, inclusivity, and artistic quality.
  • First Round – In-House Panel
    The initial round is assessed by our experienced team of Montague Gallery Resident Artists , who score each piece using our official Judge’s Checklist. This includes criteria such as originality, technical skill, composition, emotional impact, presentation, and innovation
  • Second Round – In-house and External Panel Shortlisted works are then evaluated by a panel including seven esteemed external judges bringing a broad range of expertise across visual arts disciplines.
    These judges also use the same criteria to ensure consistency and transparency in scoring.
External Judges names

Helen Masacz -Renowned painter who works have been displayed in the National Portrait Gallery and Royal Society of Portrait Painters.
The Two-Faced Twins -The famous local dynamic duo of Stella/ illustrator and Gemma Textile designer with a successful joint top selling brand of their combined vibrant style.
Cathey Verney Photographer/ Founder Worthing Portrait Artist of the Year
Annie Burton Montague Gallery Patron
Sharon Leppard Artist, The Worthing Journal, Great little Farmers Market
Liana Naylor Owner/Creator/Editor Inside Magazine

Prizes and Awards

Best in Show

The winning artist will receive a 1-month Featured Guest Artist wall space (1.5m) at the front of Montague Gallery, including a dedicated window display and promotional support.
Value: £250

Category Prizes

Four outstanding entries will each receive a £75 Art materials voucher– perfect for stocking up on creative supplies!

Public Vote Prize

We’re inviting the public to have their say! The artist with the most votes will win a £50 Montague Gallery Gift Voucher.
Plus, one lucky voter will also receive a £50 Montague Gallery Gift Voucher.