Opportunity for Berwick-based artists to take part in hospital exhibition

Northumbria Healthcare’s Bright charity is planning a new art exhibition for Berwick Infirmary.

The new exhibition will show work by Berwick-based artists and be on display during 2025 while building work continues on the new hospital which is due to open summer 2025.

Hundreds of people pass through the hospital each week – whether it’s as a patient, visiting, or as a member of NHS staff. Having artwork on display can greatly enhance the hospital environment, it can also provide a welcome distraction and create interest for people while they are there. 

While plans are moving ahead with the building of the new hospital, this is an exciting opportunity to showcase the diverse talent of local artists in the historic infirmary.

If you are interested in taking part, click the button below to access our entry form.

Please return your completed form with supporting images of your artwork to BrightCharity@northumbria.nhs.uk before Friday 6 December 2025.

Please read below for further information.

FAQs

Who can enter the exhibition?

The exhibition is open to all artists living in Berwick and the surrounding area (approx. 30-mile radius). This includes professional and amateur artists. We would also welcome art from young people who are pursuing higher education in the arts.

Does the exhibition have a particular theme?

No, all subject matter will be considered, however, we ask artists to consider what they would like to see while at the hospital. It’s worth noting that a hospital environment is different to that of a gallery and people coming to the hospital may be feeling poorly, anxious, or worried about a loved one, so art that’s uplifting would be particularly welcome.  

What medium of artwork will be shown?

We are asking for 2-dimensional works, such as paintings, watercolours, printmaking, drawings, photographs, mixed media, graphic art.

Will framed artwork be accepted?

Due to health and safety requirements, we are unable to accept frames with glass, however, bespoke frames will be provided where required and artists will be able to keep their frames (please note, our standard frame is white). We can also accept uncovered paintings on canvas.    

How many works can I submit?

You can submit up to 5 artworks.

What size of artwork can be accepted?

We can accept various sizes up to a maximum of 100cm (w) x 100cm (h) x 2cm (d).

Is there a fee for exhibiting work?

There is no fee for exhibiting work, so we request artists submit existing artworks, rather than produce new work for the exhibition.

If selected, how long will my artwork be on display?

The exhibition will be on display for 4 months from late February to May. We are planning to follow this with a new exhibition for the new hospital (opening Summer 2025).  

Will I need to provide information to go alongside my artwork?

We ask that you provide your name, title of the work, medium and year it was created. We would also welcome a few lines about the artwork if you would like to provide this, such as the inspiration or ideas behind the work (up to 100 words).

Will I need to provide information about myself?

We would like to include some information about each artist and can include links to websites, etc (up to 100 words). The aim is to promote and raise the profile of artists in Berwick.

Will I be able to sell my artwork?

You are welcome to sell your artwork; however, we ask that this is done at the end of the exhibition as we will be unable to take artwork down during its duration. Northumbria Healthcare’s Bright charity will be happy to take enquires from the public and pass these on to you.

How will artwork be selected?

There will be a panel which will include representation from the Maltings (Berwick) Trust, NHS staff and a senior university lecturer in fine art.  

How can I enter?

Please send a high-quality photograph of your artwork (no bigger than 5MB in file size) with a completed entry form to brightcharity@northumbria.nhs.uk by Friday 6 December.

When will I hear if my work has been selected for the exhibition?

If successful, you will be notified by Monday 6 January 2025

If successful, will there be publicity related to the exhibition?

The exhibition will be promoted via Northumbria Healthcare’s website and social media channels. We expect there will also be some local media coverage. By taking part in this exhibition, you consent that images of your artwork may be shared via these channels. Where possible, a credit will be given but this cannot be guaranteed.   

Will my artwork be insured while on display?

Insurance of each individual piece should be arranged by the artist. Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust does not accept insurance liability for artwork.

Contact

For any further enquiries, please contact: brightcharity@northumbria.nhs.uk

Tel: 0191 203 1208