Brewery Arts’ Open Exhibition 2026 is showcasing a record number of submissions from artists across the region, bringing together work from emerging talent, established practitioners and local creative groups in Kendal.
The exhibition opened with a Private View and Opening Evening attended by exhibitors, friends, family and visitors. Brewery Arts said the gallery was filled with conversation and celebration as guests marked the opening of the annual exhibition and explored work created in a wide range of mediums.
Two artists receive the 2026 exhibition prizes
Louise Sturgis received the Judges’ Choice Award for Wray Cottage, Kentmere. The judging panel’s prize includes a solo exhibition in the Brewery Arts Foyer Gallery in 2027.
The People’s Choice Award went to Tim Watson for Above the Long Valley – From Thunacar Knott above the Langdale Valley. Visitors voted for the work, which earned Watson a voucher sponsored by Youdells Art Shop in Kendal.
Brewery Arts thanked Youdells Art Shop for supporting the Open Exhibition and helping celebrate local artists.
Local collectives and Brewery Arts members featured
The exhibition includes work by members of local artist collectives Green Door and the Lakes Artists Society. It also features artwork from Brewery Arts Print Room and Darkroom members.
Artists connected with Brewery Arts also contributed work, including Catherine MacDiarmid, who leads the organisation’s year-round painting and drawing programme. Lucy Wright, who has previously run Artseen Wednesday and Summer Camp sessions for young creatives, is represented alongside her work with the Brewery Arts marketing team under the artist name Giddy Art.
Brewery Arts said the exhibition provides an accessible platform for artists at every stage of their creative journey, while highlighting the breadth and diversity of the local creative community.
Visitors share their reactions
The exhibition has attracted people visiting Brewery Arts for the first time during Lake District holidays, day-trippers to Kendal and local visitors who return each year. Comments left in the visitors’ book included praise for the variety and impact of the work.
“A real treat – such variety, vibrant and thoughtful observations.”
Another visitor wrote that one painting had reminded them of a poem about a pair of Doc Martens. Brewery Arts said these reactions showed how art can spark memories, conversations and creative inspiration.
Brewery Arts has already begun looking ahead to its 2027 Open Exhibition. Local artists aged 18 and over are being asked to watch the organisation’s website and social media channels for the call for submissions, expected in early spring 2027.