Now That's Different 2026

Welcome to our annual OpenArts Inc September Exhibition. "Now That's Different" challenges our artists to explore new themes and express themselves in unique ways. The exhibition will run at the MacAndrew Bay Hall from Sept 30 to October 11

Please see information for entrants at the bottom of this page 

Creating Something Different

Each year for this exhibition we choose a different theme to inspire our members. Artists are encouraged to try "something different" from the art they would ordinarily produce- this might be choosing to produce a piece that fits the theme or using a different medium. The resulting exhibition is a showcase of diverse talents and surprising interpretations.

Artist credit: Paul Wheeler

Announcing this year's theme... 

Storm In a Teacup

Artists are challenged to use the theme each year to inspire at least one piece. The inspiration for this year is the idiom- "a storm in a teacup". The essence of the phrase lies in exaggeration, emphasizing the insignificance of the problem at hand. It describes a situation where a small issue is blown out of proportion, creating unnecessary drama. Artists can choose how they interpret the theme- literally (using a teacup or storm) or figuratively with inspiration from the idioms meaning.  

We hope to see you at "Now That's Different 2026," please consider visiting the exhibition and following our upcoming events. You can follow us on Facebook or sign up for emails via this website. If you're an Otago Peninsula artist, please consider signing up for a membership with OpenArts Inc.

Information for Entrants

Individuals must be current members of the OpenArts Inc in order to enter this exhibition. 

Entries are now open, entries will close Sunday 13th September 7pm

Up to five entries per artists. The committee kindly requests that at least one piece is inspired by the theme "Storm in a teacup"

Receiving day Sunday September 27th, 1-3pm at the MacAndrew Bay Hall. 

 

Otago Peninsula Artists Inc.
Exhibition Information
Entry Forms must be received by 7pm Sunday Sept 13th To
Entry Co-ordinator by Email to: openarts.admin@gmail.com

NO LATE ENTRIES WILL BE ACCEPTED

All entries MUST be accompanied with the correct information on the correct FORMS with the correct fees and reference.

Account number BNZ 02 0912 0073755 00
You MUST be a financial member for the current Art year(May 1 2026 – April 30 2027)
Works cannot have previously been exhibited on the Peninsula.
Original works only.
Up to Three items may be entered for $20.00 fee. Extra items at $5.00 per item, a limit of 5.
Please discuss with the Co-ordinator the pricing of smaller items e.g. brooches, earrings (the artist must provide the box or stand for these items), ceramics and wooden items etc.

ENTRIES MAY BE RESTRICTED depending on size, numbers, and space available.

Works must be presented professionally and be ready for exhibition:
i) D-rings must be attached no lower than 7cm from the top on
the back of items. Very small works require D rings at least 4
cm from the top. NO eyelets. See our web site for info on
hanging and presentation of framed works.
ii) ‘Swing tags’ must be attached to back of works - with name
address, artist, title, media, selling price. Tag cord to be long
enough to flip over the top of work to assist for checking
when setting up.
iii) Work must be dry
If you have queries re presentation refer to our web sight for
instructions. Otagopeninsulaartists.com comprehensive
instructions have been added to the web site particularly to
do with the presentation of framed works. PLEASE FOLLOW
THESE.
Large works (over 1m. longest side) and works for plinths or floor will
be accepted. Max. longest side 1.2m
Acceptance of works will be at the discretion of the Co-ordinator.
Only under exceptional circumstances may an item be taken by a
purchaser at the time of purchase - before the end of the exhibition.
i.e.: The purchaser DOES NOT live in Dunedin or within a reasonable
distance of Mac Bay OR they are from another town city or country. If
taken, Exhibits cannot be replaced unless an additional fee is paid.
20% Commission will be retained to assist in covering advertising and
administration expenses.
Works must be delivered to the Macandrew Bay Hall, on Sunday
September 27th between 1.00 – 3.00pm. If this is not possible,
please
contact
the
Co-ordinator
Roger
catblack.writer63@xtra.co.nz (021 103 2858) no later than Friday
Sept. 25th to make alternative arrangements.
Unsold work MUST be collected from the Hall on Sunday 11th
October between 4:30 and 5pm. NOT EARLIER. If you are unable
personally to do so PLEASE arrange for someone to do this for you.
You may wish to provide an 'artist's profile' which will be placed next
to your exhibits. The profile must be no larger than A5 size typed and
be laminated.
Insurance is the responsibility of the artist. We will take all possible
steps to ensure that your work is not damaged whilst in our care.
We always NEED people to assist with looking after the Exhibition To
arrange a suitable day and time.
Please contact Sue Marbrow 027 369 1866 or email
suemarbrow@gmail.com
The Official opening and awards will be held for Exhibitors –
Members, and invited guests. Wednesday Sept 17th from
5:30.
Fundraising raffles!
These have always been a most successful and popular part of
our Almost an Island week, and assist helping with expenses.
Please bring your contribution on receiving day
We suggest small works of art; chocolate, books, poetry books, cards,
giftware, jewellery; wine; coffee; tea; coffee vouchers etc. The more
we have – the more raffles we can run! We would like items that
people will enjoy the fun of in purchasing a raffle.