The Good Neighbour Open Call

Esker Arts is pleased to announce the Open Call for a group exhibition opening October to December 2026 curated by Rachel Botha. For this opportunity, we invite submissions from artists from or based in Offaly and its seven neighbouring counties, Galway, Roscommon, Tipperary, Laois, Westmeath, Kildare, and Meath, to propose an existing artwork.

The exhibition focuses on the idea of ‘the good neighbour’, this can be interpreted as the central subject or an approach from varied positions. ‘The good neighbour’ from the perspective of a community defined by place, identity or commonality. Perhaps engaging with narratives that touch upon care, accessibility, hospitality, and connection, in our lived experiences.

Or it could comment on a broader context, ‘the good neighbour’ understood beyond borders – not defined by geographical proximity – but sharing a commonality with a cause. Possibly exploring themes of unity, solidarity, refuge or allyship during times of continued and intensified war, genocide, climate crisis, disinformation, hatred, fascism, racism and fear.

‘The good neighbour’ could infer our relationship with the land, and our cohabitation with plants and animals. Looking at our intertwined existence with nature, perhaps highlighting stewardship, healing, respect and interdependence with the environment.

Overall, this Open Call invites artworks that consider a widening sense of self that is explored through our connections with people and place, situated locally or stretching nationally and internationally. Reflecting on our interpersonal relationships built around a cause or struggle, or living in a world shared with the more-than-human.

WHO?

Artists from or based in Offaly and the seven neighbouring counties to Offaly: Galway, Roscommon, Tipperary, Laois, Westmeath, Kildare, and Meath. We welcome submissions from artists working in any medium and at any stage of their career.

WHAT?

Artists are invited to submit one existing work in any medium for selection i.e. performance, painting, video, sculpture, publishing and more. We cannot support the production of new work. The final selection of artworks will be based on thematic connection, artistic quality and feasibility.

WHEN?

The deadline is Wednesday 26 August at 5.30pm. Late submissions will not be processed. We will confirm receipt of all applications. Due to the volume of submissions we regret we are not able to give individual feedback regarding unsuccessful applications.

WHERE?

The exhibition will take place in Esker Arts, High St, Tullamore, Co. Offaly, R35 NY50. We will promote the exhibition and share documentation on Esker Arts’ website and social media channels. There may be an opportunity for featured artists to partake in a public programme i.e. an artist talk.

HOW?

There is no submission fee. Artworks will be selected by curator Rachel Botha, in consultation with artist Husk Bennett and curator Leah Corbett. Artists will receive a small fee for participation in the exhibition. All transport and install arrangements will be discussed with the curator. Any queries please email Rachel Botha at bothar.work@gmail.com.

Kindly supported by the Visual Arts Bursary, Arts Council, Ireland, Offaly Arts Office and Offaly County Council. Design by Emmet Brown.

SUBMISSION CRITERIA

- Artist Statement [250 words]

- Work Statement: tell us about the artwork you are proposing and how it relates to ‘the good neighbour’ [250 words]

- Documentation of the proposed artwork (three images max. or video, text, sketch, sound file, weblink, etc.), including title, year, medium, dimensions or duration

- CV [max. 3 pages, one PDF]

THIS IS OPEN CALL IS NOW CLOSED