100 years ago Stockport War Memorial Art Gallery was opened as a place to commemorate those who had given their lives in the First World War. An art gallery was built so people could experience beauty after the horrors of war.
To mark this milestone, we’re inviting the children and young people of Stockport to create new artwork for display in the gallery during the centenary period. It's anticipated that the exhibition will run over several phases, subject the numbers wishing to submit work.
The theme for the artworks is ‘Beautiful Things’ and we want works that are inspired by something in Stockport that you think is beautiful. This could be something or someone, within the Borough of Stockport, that makes you happy when you see it, hear it or touch it, and something whose beauty you would like to share with other people.
Who can submit an artwork?
We can accept artworks submitted by:
- children and young people up to the age of 25 who are living, working or studying in Stockport
- parents and carers on behalf of children and young people
- schools, colleges and groups on behalf of their students or members
Individual and group works can be submitted.
What kind of artworks can be submitted?
Artworks need to follow the ‘Beautiful Things’ theme and have been created especially for the exhibition.
Artworks can be:
- 2 dimensional (2D) for example, pictures or photogaphs
- 3 dimensional (3D) for example, sculpture
- sound files (MP3 format)
- video files (MP4 format)
What's the maximum size?
- for collaborative 2D artworks we ask that the maximum size is A1. It may be possible to accept larger works by prior arrangement with the gallery
- for individual 2D artworks, the maximum size is A3 and the minimum size is A5
- for individual 3D artworks, the maximum size is 20cm x 20cm x 20cm
- if you're planning on submitting a collaborative 3D artwork, please contact us for advice
- the maximum length for video and audio files is 2 minutes
What format does my work need to be in?
Our preference is for all works submitted to be framed or on canvas with mirror plates attached. We understand this may present a cost barrier and so are prepared to accept work in other formats by prior arrangement.
Video works need to be in MP4 format and sound files in MP3 format.
How do I submit my work?
All artworks must be ready for submission by Friday 12 September 2025. We may request works are submitted for different phases of the exhibition.
To help us plan the exhibition, you need to let us know that you plan to submit artworks by Friday 29 August 2025.
You can use our online forms to:
- tell us if you're planning to submit work as an individual, or as a parent/carer
- tell us if you're planning to submit work as a group on behalf of a school, college or community organisation
We'll contact you to let you know when and how to submit your work.
Data protection
Your personal information will be collected and used for the Children and Young People’s Exhibition administrative activities. You can find more information in our museums privacy notice.
If after the exhibition closes you wish to have your contact details removed from our database, you can:
- call 0161 474 4453
- email stockport.artgallery@stockport.gov.uk
Will all artwork be exhibited?
All works submitted will be exhibited providing they do not contain any material which could be considered to cause offence to visitors.
Subject to the number of works received, we may need to exhibit the works in a number of different phases throughout the centenary period.
I can't afford to take part, is there any help?
If you're an individual, watch out for details of workshops we're running throughout the summer where we'll provide materials and support.
If you're an organisation or educational institution, we can make a limited number of small grants available to cover the cost of materials. Email stockport.artgallery@stockport.gov.uk for more details.