The NAE OPEN has returned for its sixth iteration in 2026, featuring world renowned artist Faiza Butt, Nottingham-based Dan Jamieson and coinciding with the launch of Matrika: She Who Makes the World by Saroj Patel.
A standout event took place in Hyson Green, bringing together artists, patrons and members of NAE’s VOICE Assembly – a permanent, representative citizens’ assembly which forms a core part of the institution’s leadership structure.
The launch marked the beginning of the three month exhibition, created through a competitive open call and featuring Nottinghamshire-based artists alongside Global Ethnic Majority artists from across the UK.
Tasked with identifying the most innovative and high-quality works responding to contemporary social issues and concerns, a selection panel comprised of the local community, artists and curators chose from over 200 call-out respondents.
The result is an eclectic and compelling exhibition featuring artists at different stages of their careers, demonstrating a dynamic presentation of works including paintings, print, video, installation, photography, textiles and sculpture.
Faiza Butt’s work has been exhibited internationally and is held in major collections including the British Museum. Born in Lahore and now based in London, Butt was recently selected by Pakistan’s Ministry of National Heritage and Culture to represent the country at the 61st Venice Biennale – the world’s most prestigious international contemporary cultural exhibition.
Also featured in this year's OPEN is Nottingham-based Dan Jamieson. Known for his handmade ceramic ‘hate plates’ that are collected worldwide by a devoted fanbase, Jamieson’s work challenges audiences and provokes conversation..
“The OPEN gives a platform to artists and perspectives that are still underrepresented in mainstream contemporary visual art” says Saad Eddine Said, CEO and Artistic Director at NAE. “Much of the work is rooted in artists’ lived experience and reflects the realities of Britain right now, with themes including identity, belonging, community, migration and resilience.”
Alongside the OPEN, NAE is presenting Saroj Patel’s Matrika: She Who Makes the World. Influenced by her Indian heritage and Hindu mythology, the exhibition explores women’s strength, ancestral memory and the futures we imagine into being.