Date published: 2026-08-19 | Category: Heritage
One of Bath's most popular annual art events returns this autumn as the Bath Society of Artists 121st Open Exhibition opens at Victoria Art Gallery, from 19 September to 7 November 2026.
Showcasing original artwork by artists from across the country, the exhibition offers visitors the chance to discover new talent, find fresh inspiration and even take home their own piece of original art.
Selected through an open submission process, the exhibition changes completely each year, bringing together new artists, ideas and unexpected discoveries. From painting and printmaking to sculpture and mixed media, visitors can explore an exciting variety of work from both established artists and rising talent.
This year's exhibition will feature acclaimed British painter and printmaker Basil Beattie RA as the Bath Society of Artists' Invited Artist. One of the UK's most respected contemporary painters, Beattie was at the forefront of Abstract Expressionism in the UK in the mid-twentieth century. Still practicing today, his gestural works, often in natural earthy tones, experiment with architectural motifs, symbols and hieroglyphs. In 2007 he was given a dedicated room at Tate Britain. Beattie's involvement is a major highlight of the exhibition and offers visitors the opportunity to see work by an artist whose influence has been felt across generations of British art.
Alongside the invited artist programme, the exhibition is supported by an experienced panel of artists and arts professionals. This year's prize judges are Heather Jane Wallace MA (Fine Arts), Founder and Director of Heritage Courtyard Gallery and Studios, and Ros Cuthbert MA (RCA) RWA. Guest selectors Claire Todd, Artist Curator at Pound Arts, and Tom Waugh RWA MRSS will join the 2D and 3D selection panels respectively, helping to shape this year's exhibition from hundreds of submissions.
Geoff Shillito, Chair of the Bath Society of Artists, said:
‘The Bath Society of Artists’ 121st Annual Open Exhibition encompasses the talents of highly respected local, regional, and national artist members, together with aspiring non-members waiting to surprise and delight audiences. Every year, the Society aims to showcase the work of an invited artist, and this year is no exception, as we are proud and delighted to welcome internationally acclaimed painter and printmaker Basil Beattie RA. This exciting show reflects the extraordinary quality, ambition and breadth of contemporary art being produced today.’
Whether you're an experienced collector or simply looking for something special for your home, many of the artworks on display will be available to buy, with prices to suit a range of budgets. Visitors can also vote for their favourite piece in the popular Public Choice Prize, helping to decide this year's audience winner.
The exhibition is also known among artists for its generous programme of awards and prizes including £5,500 in cash prizes and over £800 in vouchers, helping to attract high-quality submissions and support creative talent across the region. Judges include Heather Jane Wallace MA Fine Arts, Founder of Heritage Courtyard Gallery & Studios, and Ros Cuthbert MA (RCA) RWA.
For more than 120 years, the exhibition has helped connect artists with new audiences, supporting creative talent while giving visitors the opportunity to experience and enjoy original art in the heart of Bath.
Councillor Kevin Guy, Leader of Bath & North East Somerset Council, said:
"The Bath Society of Artists Open Exhibition is a much-loved part of Bath's cultural life, bringing together artists, residents and visitors in one of the city's most beautiful galleries. We look forward to welcoming audiences to another inspiring exhibition this autumn."
Founded in 1904 by just 26 artists, the Bath Society of Artists has grown into a thriving organisation of around 125 members and remains at the heart of the region's artistic community. For more than 120 years, its Annual Open Exhibition at Victoria Art Gallery has provided a platform for both established and emerging artists. Throughout its history, the Society has attracted the interest of some of Britain's most celebrated artists, including Walter Sickert, John Singer Sargent, Philip Wilson Steer, Gilbert Spencer, Patrick Heron, Mary Fedden, William Scott and David Inshaw.
The Bath Society of Artists 121st Open Exhibition runs at Victoria Art Gallery, Bath, from 19 September to 7 November 2026.
For more information, visit www.victoriagal.org.uk.
Image: Rosalind Robinson, The Muse