Torre Abbey is currently seeking artists, makers, performers to apply for our new Spring Open exhibition to be held at Torre Abbey, 17 April to 27 June 2021. The theme is “Chasing Rainbows.”

Rainbows are not just a beautiful natural phenomenon, they represent peace and hope and the metaphorical promise of sunshine after the rain. In 2020 they were used as a powerful emblem of solidarity with our NHS and key workers, while throughout history they have been given a spiritual meaning in every major religion. Rainbows were also adopted by the peace movement in the 1960’s and have become an enduring international symbol of the LGBT+ community.

For our new Spring Open Art Exhibition, we are encouraging artists to work in all mediums to create a timely celebration of rainbows which will be able to be enjoyed in spaces both inside our buildings and outside in our stunning interior gardens. We would love artists to be inspired to be as colourful, quirky and dynamic as possible and not only limited to more conventional art forms. We would love the exhibition to be a kaleidoscope celebration of colour, where the sky is the limit and rainbows are a bridge to a more positive and peaceful future.

How to apply

Download and complete an application form and return it no later than 8pm on Monday 30 November. You can also email Anna.Gilroy@torbay.gov.uk to request an application form or discuss your proposal beforehand.

Selection

A selection panel will be made up of the Abbey exhibition and curatorial team and external creative professionals. The decision will be final and the panel may contact you with any questions they may have before their final decision. All successful artists will hear individually no later than 18th December 2020. Installation dates will be agreed with artists in the New Year. Please send sketches/plans/details of proposed work(s) that you are proposing to create in time to exhibit in June or sculptures that are already available.