“It’s been one of the busiest previews the Open has ever had”. These are the words of The Atkinson’s Exhibitions and Learning Officer, Jemma Tynan. And her words are very true; the Sefton Open Preview Night, last night, was very, very busy.



And deservedly so; the quality and sheer number of works is quite breathtaking. Considering the Open takes its submissions only from artists with connections to Sefton the standard is incredibly high. It reflects the immense pool of artistic talent that is present within a relatively small area.

Including the Southport Palette Club, who curate The Open, there are thirteen other groups and societies exhibiting a wide spread of media including painting, mixed media, photography, sculpture, ceramics and textiles. These groups are spread right across the Borough of Sefton are represent artists with all levels of experience and of all ages. It’s not just group artists that shown at the Open but many, many independent artists are represented too.

One of the independent exhibitors is Emmeline McLoughlin, a first-time entrant to the Sefton Open. Emmeline was a nurse until deciding to become a full-time artist-illustrator in 2023. Her entries are both digital illustrations and show how digital media is now a feature of what was considered a very ‘traditional’ exhibition. She describes being nervous about entering work but it was ‘a bridge she had to cross’.



One of the larger paintings in the Open is by artist Grant Searle, who is also the proprietor of Gallery One on Lord Street. He first exhibited in the Sefton Open twenty five years ago when it was hosted in the old Atkinson Art Gallery. He says ‘I think it needs more publicity but it’s a very, very good exhibition. I’ll definitely be submitting again.’



The Sefton Open is, indeed, the major artistic event of the year and is quite often the focus of many artists. Artists and creative makers are aware of the high standard that is expected in order to be selected and some see it as a driving force in their work, something to focus on. However, it is an inclusive exhibition and work is accepted regardless of the entrant’s art education, experience, age, etc. The work is selected on its own merits.

Jemma Tynan’s comment in full from last night sums up the evening: “There’s been a fabulous attendance; it’s been one of the busiest previews the Open has ever had. There were a very high level of entries this year and it’s nice to see different types of media being submitted, with ceramics being quite prominent now. The Sefton Open is, indeed, open to artists and groups who have a connection to Sefton. Work is submitted from all over the Borough”. She added that she really appreciates the way people support the exhibition by not only attending but by buying the artists’ work.

The Sefton Open is at The Atkinson from Saturday 23rd March to Saturday 4th May 2024.

Date: Saturday 23 March 2024 – Saturday 4 May 2024

Free Entry
Monday – Saturday. 10am – 4pm.
Closed Sundays & Bank Holidays.

Tony Wynee