Exhibition Open Call - Hand Me Down

Overview

No Limits Gallery invites visual artists to submit work for Hand Me Down, a two-month show opening this December. Selected artists could go on to work with the gallery long-term. The exhibition launches with a one-day programme of live music and a fashion show, presented by NICOLA Arts. No Limits Gallery is a dedicated space within the NICOLA Arts charity shop.

Theme: Hand Me Down

The exhibition takes its cue from the charity shop itself, where something one person lets go of finds its way to a stranger. While second-hand things are often dismissed as old or worn, Hand Me Down treats them as holders of emotional value and sparks for relationships yet to form. We invite visual creatives to explore what builds up as things change hands, from objects and materials to the stories, memories, and feelings they carry, each holding a history to share, a connection to make, and something to pass on.

Eligibility

The call opens to artists at any stage of their practice, with or without formal training. We welcome work in all media. You can submit existing work or new work made in response to the theme. Everyone is eligible for this opportunity.

Key Dates

• Submission Deadline: 12 November 2026, 23:59 (London time)
• Exhibition Dates: 12 December 2026 – 20 February 2027
• Opening: 12 December, from 12pm until late
• Delivery Date: 12 December 2026 - 20 February 2027

Location

Ministry of NICOLA Arts, 642 Wandsworth Road, London SW8 3JW.

How to Participate

• Submit up to 5 images of your work.
• Label each file with your name only, numbered in order, e.g. Firstname_Surname1, Firstname_Surname2.

Fees

• Free to apply.
• If your work is selected, we ask for a £10 participation fee to secure your place. This fee doesn’t cover the full cost of producing the exhibition, but it helps us keep the organisation running.