The Oldham Open, a free exhibition of work by local artists, is now open at Gallery Oldham on Greaves Street. The biennial showcase is running until Saturday 14 November, with over 250 pieces submitted this year — the largest number ever.
The 2026 edition coincides with Oldham's year as Greater Manchester Town of Culture. Work is displayed across Gallery Two and Gallery Three, allowing more artworks to be shown than in previous years.
What's on display
The exhibition includes drawing, painting, photography, ceramics, jewellery, hat making and patchwork. Artworks are from people living, studying or working in the borough. Some artists have focused on local landmarks including views of Delph, Dove Stone reservoir and Daisy Nook.
Among the exhibiting artists is Janis Bowie, whose work ranges from landscapes to scenes of everyday life and textile mill interiors. Her two pieces, titled Removing Roving Spools and Working in the Mill, reflect her interest in preserving the memory of the borough's historic mill industry.
Ellicott Wilcox, who has lived in the borough since 2010, is exhibiting for the fifth time. His textile work, entitled Rooster Vortex, is part of the display. Wilcox has been quilting since 2015.
Voting and sales
Visitors can vote for their favourite piece to win the People's Prize. Some work is also for sale, offering an opportunity to purchase art.
The Friends of Gallery Oldham, who fundraised to add Cliff Murphy's painting The Coliseum to the gallery's permanent collection in 2024, plan to select another painting to add to the collection again this year.
Opening hours
Gallery Oldham is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm. The exhibition runs until 14 November.
