It’s time once again for one of the art world’s greatest open exhibitions, where the great and the good and the determined all come together for this annual celebration of visual art, writes Michael Holland.
Over 200 pieces were submitted and over 200 pieces are on display. No one gets disappointed at the Southwark Park Galleries because all artists are welcome to show their art in this ‘large-scale, democratic salon show’; this is a real Open show, not like other Opens where, if your art don’t fit you don’t get in…
At this, the 37th Annual Open, you can see drawing, photography, print, sculpture, mosaic, videos, and, of course, paintings in oils, watercolours and acrylics. There are artworks created from found objects and a self-portrait formed of dog hair and a pipe!
With art, the general visitor will not like everything, but in this exhibition there will always be something for everyone. Amongst my favourites were a cube of felt with a badge saying what it would like to do to the Government; a portrait of Bertha II formed of found objects that showed both feelings for Bertha and a love for the planet by recycling discarded bits and pieces; HaHa, a concrete and laughing gas bulbs creation depicting how the druggies must look after they’ve sucked a few of the bulbs; and The Job Interview, a very disturbing painting that absolutely nailed the dynamic of fear and power in those situations.
Plus, there are over 20 videos to watch in the screening room.
Overall, the 37th Open is another success for Southwark Park Galleries. All artwork are for sale at what are deemed affordable prices, with a small percentage of the sales going to charity.
On the last day, December 11th, there will be a Winter Gathering Closing Event with mulled wine, carol singing from the Rotherhithe & Bermondsey Choral Society, and the Best In Show will be announced, with the winning artist going home with a £500 Christmas treat donated by Breckman & Company.
Southwark Park Galleries, Southwark Park, SE16 until December 11th. Admission: Free, Wed-Sun 11am – 4pm.