While it’s been a difficult year for many sectors, the COVID-19 pandemic has proved especially tough for the art industry. Now, as lockdown restrictions begin to ease, galleries can once again prepare to open their doors. 

In Manchester is an open call exhibition created after Cotton On MCR identified a lack of opportunities for emerging talent and lesser-known artists in gallery spaces across the city. The exhibition will be Saul Hay Gallery’s re-opening exhibition. Alongside Saul Hay Gallery, Cotton On MCR wants to encourage everyone to get back to exploring the city’s amazing art scene.

The exhibition will include the work of 30 different artists, including hobbyists, students, graduates, amateurs and professionals, and consist of a mix of paintings, prints and textiles. Cotton On MCR aims to show that art can be for everyone and made by anyone. The exhibition will be judged by a panel of experts, including Ian Hay, director and curator at Saul Hay Gallery, Ian Rayer-Smith, contemporary British artist, Liam Hopkins (aka Lazerian), artist and designer, and founder of Cotton On MCR, Domino Panton-Oakley.

Main image: Carlos Ferg