Scarborough Market Vaults : Emerging Contemporaries Exhibition

Overview

SCAF is supporting an exhibition in the Scarborough Market Hall Vaults, curated by Amelia Pethullis. The exhibition will focus on experimental approaches to practice and offer Yorkshire-based artists the opportunity to showcase works representing their ongoing artistic practices.

Eligibility

This opportunity is open to individuals working within Yorkshire, with particular focus on emerging artists not currently represented by galleries. It is intended for those actively developing their artistic practice and seeking local opportunities that support progression of their creative careers.

Exhibition Concept

Emerging Contemporaries will take place in the Scarborough Market Hall Vaults. Local and regional artists are invited to propose works that represent their wider practice in any theme, material, or concept. The exhibition is shaped by the site's specific constraints, including limited space and the non-traditional nature of the venue. Artists should be prepared for flexible curatorial decisions made collaboratively with curator Amelia Pethullis.

Working with the Space

The Vaults are not a conventional gallery environment. Artists will work with the curator to install work in ways that respond to the space, acknowledging that spatial boundaries and architectural complexities may influence display decisions. The exhibition celebrates the integration of contemporary fine art within regional community spaces.

Exposure and Marketing

Scarborough Market Hall is a busy community venue with consistent daily footfall from local residents, shoppers, and visitors. The exhibition will be promoted through SCAF's social media channels, Scarborough Market Hall platforms, and targeted outreach to local arts networks, including Instagram, partner organisations, and community groups. Artists will also be encouraged to share exhibition details within their own networks. The venue benefits from increased activity during weekends and market events, with special significance in Scarborough's 400th anniversary year.

Benefits for Artists

Participating artists will exhibit in a distinctive, non-traditional space that encourages experimental installation approaches and responsive display methods. The Vaults' architectural character offers valuable experience in adapting work to site-specific contexts. Artists receive curatorial support throughout installation, with collaborative decision-making around display. Small-scale works are welcomed and can be accommodated through pre-arranged delivery. The exhibition foregrounds emerging voices and offers visibility through promotion by SCAF and Scarborough Market Hall, providing increased public engagement, professional development, and opportunities to build connections with other regional practitioners.

Key Dates

• Submission deadline: Friday 24th July 2026
• Selected participants notified: Monday 27th July
• Artwork delivery and install: Wednesday 12th, Thursday 13th, Friday 14th August 2026
• Opening (tbc): Friday 14th or Saturday 15th August 2026
• Exhibition run: 14th August to 2nd September 2026
• Deinstall: Thursday 3rd or Friday 4th September 2026

Artwork Delivery and Invigilation

All artwork must be delivered to the Scarborough Market Hall Vaults on 12th and 13th August 2026. Small works may be accepted via pre-arranged delivery to Amelia Pethullis upon request and at the organiser's discretion. Invigilation hours are required unless otherwise arranged with the organiser. A minimum of one day (6 hours) total is required, which can be completed at any time during the run and can be divided as desired.