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CuratorSpace | Project management tools for curators and artists

Go! Artists - Oldham Art Fair

Deadline: 10/05/2026

City: Oldham  |  GO! Friends

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Following the success of last year’s event, the Friends of Gallery Oldham are pleased to invite submissions for GO Artists – Oldham Art Fair 2026. This one day fair celebrates original handmade work and the creative talent of Oldham and the wider region. The event takes place on Saturday 17 October 2026 at Gallery Oldham, offering exhibitors a professional and welcoming space to showcase and sell their work.

About the Event

GO Artists – Oldham Art Fair brings together a curated selection of high quality handmade work including painting, illustration, printmaking, textiles, ceramics, jewellery, woodwork and contemporary craft.

Visitors will have the chance to meet artists, explore their work and purchase unique pieces directly from the makers.

About the Friends of Gallery Oldham

The Friends support Gallery Oldham through fundraising and community engagement. Their work helps to:

  • Acquire new artworks
  • Conserve important pieces
  • Support local artists
  • Deliver creative and educational projects
  • By taking part, exhibitors contribute directly to the cultural life of Oldham


Key Dates

  • Application deadline: Midnight, 10th May 2026 
  • Notification of selection: 18th May 2026 
  • Payment deadline: 7th June 2026 
  • Event date: Saturday 17th October 2026, 10am to 4pm

Eligibility

Applications are welcome from:

  • Artists and makers living, working or connected to Oldham (priority given)
  • Creatives from Greater Manchester and beyond
  • All work must be original, handmade and of a high standard. Copyrighted or mass produced items are not permitted

How to Apply

Applicants must submit:

  • A completed application form
  • Up to three JPEG images (maximum 5MB each), including one image of a previous or proposed stall setup
  • Proof of public liability insurance

Fees

£20 per table

Raffle Contribution

Participation includes providing a small piece of work for the event's art raffle, which raises funds for the Friends of Gallery Oldham's initiatives. Contributions don’t have to be costly, but your generosity will make a significant difference.

What Exhibitors Receive

  • A six foot stall space with one chair provided
  • The option to request a table (limited availability, allocated on a first come first served basis)
  • The option to request additional display space such as browsers (not guaranteed)
  • Promotion through social media, newsletters, gallery networks and local press
  • A professional and supportive environment within Gallery Oldham

Setup and Logistics

  • Setup: 9 am to 10 am 
  • Event open: 10 am to 4 pm 
  • Pack down: 4 pm to 5 pm
  • Stalls must be presented to a high standard with a tablecloth and clear walkways
  • Early pack down is not permitted except in emergencies

Insurance and Conduct

  • Exhibitors must hold valid public liability insurance
  • The organisers are not responsible for loss, theft or damage
  • Professional and respectful conduct is expected throughout the event

Parking and Accessibility

Nearby parking includes Sainsbury’s on Union Street and Oldham Council car parks, both free for three hours on weekends.

Gallery Oldham is fully accessible with step free entry.

Apply Now

GO Artists – Oldham Art Fair is an opportunity to share your work, connect with the creative community and contribute to Oldham’s cultural future.

Make a submission Contact the curator
Who is eligible for this opportunity?
While the event prioritises artists and makers living, working and connected to the Oldham Borough, applications are open to creatives from all areas.
What can I sell?
We're looking for artists and makers who work in a variety of mediums. All work must be original, handmade, and of high quality. Reproductions or mass-produced items will not be accepted.

Copyrighted work is strictly prohibited. If any copyrighted items are displayed during the event, you will be required to remove them immediately, which may impact your participation in future events.
Why do I need to provide a piece of my work?
While this art fair aims to showcase and promote local makers, it's also a vital fundraising event. Funds from the day will help Gallery Oldham buy new artwork, take care of older pieces, and give local artists the support they deserve.

Participation includes providing a small piece of work for the event's art raffle, which raises funds for the Friends of Gallery Oldham's initiatives. Contributions don’t have to be costly, but your generosity will make a significant difference.
What's the selection process?
Due to limited space, submissions will be juried by a panel to ensure a variety of styles and mediums, the panel's decisions are final.
When will I be notified?
Artists and makers will be notified of the selection decision by email 18th May 2026.
Why do I need to show proof of public liability insurance?
By providing proof of insurance, you demonstrate that you take safety seriously and are prepared to handle any unforeseen incidents. This is required to ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone involved.
Is there a fee to participate?
Yes, a nonrefundable fee of £20 per table is required upon selection confirmation to secure your place.
When is the payment deadline?
Payment must be made by 7th June 2026. Failure to pay on time may result in forfeiting your space for the event.
What is I can no longer attend?
If you're unable to attend the event for any reason please provide with as much notice as possible so we may be able to fill the space.
Is electricity provided?
No, so please bear this in mind when applying.
Does the venue have free WIFI?
Yes, details of which will be provided nearer the time.
Are tables provided?
We have a limited number of tables available, these will be reserved and a first-come, first-serve basis upon receipt of applications so please consider this when applying.
Will I have to bring my own chair?
One chair per stand will be provided. We way have access to more, but this isn't guaranteed. If you require more than one, then please get in touch and we'll let you know if this can be accommodated.
How much space will I have?
Each stand is allocated a 6ft space. If you require extra space for displays (e.g., art browsers), this must be stated on your application. Additional space cannot be guaranteed and will not be allocated if it poses a safety risk.
What do I need to set up/take down?
Set up will be from 9 am - 10 am, and you must be packed down by 5 pm. Further set instructions will be emailed nearer the event date.
Can I leave the event early?
Under no circumstances should you pack down before 4 pm, doing so is not only unprofessional but it will result in you not being eligible to participate in future events. In the case of an emergency and you need to leave, please inform one of The Friends Of Gallery Oldham volunteers who will assist you in quickly and safely packing down your stall.
What is expected of me on the day?
Participants are expected to conduct themselves respectfully and professionally throughout the event. All artists must follow the organisers’ instructions during setup and throughout the day.
How will the event be promoted?
This event will be extensively marketed to ensure success, including promotion through social media campaigns, newsletters, gallery and library networks, local newspapers and community radio stations. Artists are encouraged to actively share event details on their own social media platforms to help boost community attendance.
Where can I park?
Nearby parking is available at Sainsbury’s 60 Union St, OL1 1DJ (free for 3 hours or all day, charges apply https://www.yourparkingspace.co.uk/locations/show/3278213869) and local council car parks (free for 3 hours on weekends https://www.oldham.gov.uk/info/201064/car_parks/809/oldham_town_centre_car_parks).
Where will you use my images?
By submitting your artwork, you grant Friends of Gallery Oldham permission to use the images for promotional purposes, including social media, newsletters, and press materials.

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