The New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM) in Armidale is calling on emerging artists and artisans from across the region to submit work for its end of year exhibition, 40 Under 40.
The exhibition is open to creatives under the age of 40 working in any medium, with no set theme, giving entrants free rein to explore their own creative direction.
NERAM Director Rachael Parsons said the exhibition was designed to connect the gallery with new creative voices across the New England region.
“NERAM has an amazing creative community across the New England region, and we know there are so many talented artists, designers and creative practitioners doing exciting work. At the same time, we know there are many people we simply haven’t had the opportunity to connect with yet,” Ms Parsons said.
“We wanted to use 40 Under 40 as an opportunity to open that door and discover new creative voices from across the region. It is also about actively supporting the next generation of artists and designers. By creating a specific invitation for emerging creatives, we are saying that their work matters, that we want to see what they are doing, and that NERAM is a place where they can connect with audiences and the broader creative community,” she said.
NERAM Curatorial Assistant and Gallery Technician Phoebe Hillard said leaving the exhibition open ended gave emerging artists room to find their voice.
“By setting no theme it creates an opportunity for artists and artisans to showcase their authentic creative voice without restriction, a significant freedom for any emerging artist in the early development stages of their career,” Ms Hillard said.
Forty works will be chosen by committee for display in the exhibition, with finalists to be announced on Thursday, 15 October. One selected work will also be acquired into the NERAM Collection, with the acquisition sponsored by Packsaddle.
“Packsaddle is an incredible organisation that has supported NERAM and Australian artists for over 40 years. Through the hard work and generosity of volunteers, the Packsaddle Exhibition raises funds to support our museum through acquisitions, sponsorships, talks, conservation and education. The committee has always had a focus on supporting artists and have generously offered to support the acquisition of one of the exhibited works for inclusion in the NERAM collection,” Ms Hillard said.
The committee will judge the acquisition piece on concept, skill, execution and originality.
To be eligible, artists must be under 40 and reside in the New England district, with a limit of two entries per artist. Ms Hillard said the term “emerging artist” referred to creators in the early stages of their career.
“An emerging artist is a creator in the early stages of their professional career who has begun to build a consistent body of work. The artist does not yet have a broad, sustained market presence, representation by major galleries, or an extensive, nationally recognised exhibition and review history,” Ms Hillard said.
Ms Hillard said the museum was hoping to see a wide range of perspectives and techniques from entrants.
“We’d love to see our visitors engage with the lived experience and expression of young artists in the New England Region. Unique perspectives, techniques and ideas. Through art we can create an open dialogue with our audience inviting people to think, feel and see what it is to be both an artist and person living in regional Australia,” Ms Hillard said.
She said the exhibition offered valuable experience for emerging artists in the region.
“This is chance for emerging artists to gain experience in the process of a professional exhibition, begin to gain public recognition, engage with the community and fellow peers, all while building on their resume,” Ms Hillard said.
While 40 Under 40 is a standalone exhibition, Ms Hillard said NERAM would keep supporting young artists through other channels, with artists at any career stage able to submit exhibition proposals via the NERAM website.
Artworks are to be delivered to NERAM between Monday, 2 November and Friday, 6 November, ahead of install from Monday, 9 November to Friday, 13 November. The exhibition opens on Friday, 13 November from 6pm, alongside three other new exhibitions featuring Patricia Wilson-Adams, Margaret Cohen and Shane Fitzgerald.
“A fun time! Drinks, canapés, art and chat. 40 under 40 is a particular style of exhibition that always contributes to a joyous and lively atmosphere,” Ms Hillard said.
The exhibition will run until 4pm on Sunday, 7 February 2027.
Entries close on Monday, 5 October. Ms Hillard encouraged artists not to be held back by self-doubt.
“Be clear and direct while maintaining your artist voice, who you are and why you make it. Don’t get caught up on whether you think you have enough experience, all artists start somewhere, aim high. Regardless of outcome, the experience of applying for exhibitions is an important development stage for any young emerging artist,” Ms Hillard said.
Entries and enquiries can be sent to gallery@neram.com.au. The entry form can be downloaded here.
Advertising with New England Times is a cost effective and reliable way to reach New England locals who are interested and engaged. Find out more here.