OPEN CALL photography exhibition: Silver Skies
February 11, 2026
Silver Skies: ISLAND Arts Centre Marks 25 Years with an Open Call Photography Competition
Since 2001 ISLAND Arts Centre has served as a fixture of Northern Ireland’s cultural landscape and been a vital and supportive platform for both emerging and established artists. To celebrate this landmark ‘Silver’ anniversary, the centre is looking upward and outward with the launch of its first-ever photography open call.
The Silver Skies open call is a free to enter competition where entrants have the opportunity to have their work selected for exhibition as well as be in with the chance to win one of three prizes. £250 is available for first prize, with £150 and £50 being second and third prizes respectively.
Silver Skies submissions will be judged and curated by Stephen S.T. Bradley, one of Northern Ireland’s most experienced professional photographers. From Belfast to Atlanta, Georgia, Bradley’s lens has captured defining moments for international icons such as Coca-Cola, Newsweek, The LA Times, and The Sunday Times. The twice awarded Northern Ireland News Photographer of the Year brings a rigorous, professional eye to the submission process.
Submission Details
Photographers are invited to submit up to three images which, through high-quality execution and a unique vision, best reflect the competition’s theme.
Deadline for Entries: 12pm, 17 April 2026
- Selection Announcement: 29 April 2026
- Requirements: High-resolution JPEGs, artist statement, and professional links (website and social media handles).
- How to Apply: Submissions can be made via https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/SilverSkiesOpenCall/
Key Dates:
- Open Call Deadline: 12pm, Fri 17 April
- Selection Notification: Wed 29 April
- Delivery of Work: Fri 22, Sat 23 or Tues 26 May, 9:30am-4:30pm
- Exhibition Preview & Announcement of Winners: Sat 30 May, 2-4pm
- Exhibition Dates: 1 June – 4 July
Questions?
Who can enter? The competition is open to photographers of all levels, based in Northern Ireland or further afield.
How do I apply? Please apply via the link: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/SilverSkiesOpenCall/
Are composite images allowed? No. We require one-shot photographs, rather than composite images or heavy digital manipulations.
Can my images be sold? Yes. Commission will be deducted from any sales.