Review: The Harris Open Exhibition 2013

First night of the Harris Open Exhibition (Courtesy Bernie Blackburn)

Preston’s art lovers were out in force last night for the launch of The Harris Museum’s annual showcase of local artistic talent. Preston’s Mayor, Councillor Veronica Afrin, was on hand to welcome the crowd and to present certificates to Preston’s young artists in recognition of their artistic efforts.

This year’s event has been organised in partnership with local groups. Sahara in Preston, Young Harris, Preston Free Your Mind and the Lancashire Probation Trust are all showing works in the exhibition. The show has been co-curated by young people’s groups Blaze and Young Harris.

Nearly four hundred entries are on display including paintings, drawings, sculpture, photography and digital works and all the entries have come from people living within a five mile radius of The Harris Museum and Art Gallery. The fantastic array of artworks on display highlight the wealth of creative talent that there is locally, and judging by the attendance at last night’s opening, the annual arts extravaganza is more popular than ever.

There are three prizes up for grabs this year. One will be chosen by the celebrated fashion designer Wayne Hemingway, one will be chosen by a public vote and the third will be chosen by the Harris and the shows sponsor Granthams. Prizes will be announced in an official event on Wednesday 22 January at 6.30pm.

The show continues until the 25^th of January, so next time you’re in the city centre, why not call in and vote for your favourite entry.

Flickr slideshow of the exhibition first night