Art lovers have been enjoying the superb works of art on display in this year;’s record breaking Sefton Open at The Atkinson in Southport.
Nearly 800 artworks are on show in the galleries on the first floor, created by talented artists from across Sefton.
The Sefton Open is an annual exhibition which celebrates creativity and artistic talent across the borough.
It opened on Saturday 5th April 2025 and runs through to Saturday 31st May 2025.
Admission is free.
The Sefton Open features a wide variety of works from individual artists and local groups and each year attracts thousands of visitors to The Atkinson.
There was a record number of submissions this year.
The Sefton Open sees The Atkinson’s long standing partner, Southport Palette Club, select the work from individual artists for the exhibition.
Visitors can purchase catalogues and are encouraged to vote for their favourite artwork on display for The People’s Prize.
Visitors can also support local artists by investing in their work, most artworks are available to purchase through The Atkinson and the Own Art Scheme.
Southport Palette Club was formed in 1921 by a group of artists, including local landscape painter and Southport School of Art graduate Percy Lancaster.
Their sole intention was to further the ‘professional interests of Southport artists by holding an annual exhibition of their works’.
They were headed by Southport born Club President, Philip Connard, a post he held until his death.
The bond between The Atkinson Art Gallery and the Palette Club was formed at this time when H.P.Hugill, curator of The Atkinson, became the first Chairman of the group.
During the early years the exhibition would display up to 180 works, and has continued to grow in size, stature and variety.
Peter Owen, a Birkdale based professional artist and current Chairman of Southport Palette Club, said: “Increased submission to the Southport Palette Club meant a rigorous selection which is reflected in the quality of the work displayed in this year’s exhibition.”
This year’s Sefton Open is remembering David Collins (1949-2024), a dedicated volunteer at The Atkinson for the past eight years.
He was an integral helper for The Landing and the Sefton Open, delivered art talks and was an important part of the Inclusion Volunteer Team. He will be greatly missed by all.
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