I am still pinching myself as I write this, but I finally have some incredible news to share. My painting, “Maelstrom’s Eye,” has been selected for the Open Art Exhibition 2026 at the Bolton Museum!

A Milestone Moment

For any artist, the transition from creating in private to showing in public is a significant one. This isn’t just another update; this is my very first public exhibition. After years of experimenting with the fluid nature of watercolours and the bold structure of acrylics, seeing my work recognised by a selection committee at such a prestigious local institution feels like a massive leap forward.

The Story Behind “Maelstrom’s Eye”

This piece is an exploration of the unknown Cosmos. Using a mix of matte and metallic acrylics, I wanted to capture the tension between the chaos of a celestial storm and the eerie stillness at its centre.

In my work, I’ve always been fascinated by alien worlds and the idea that space is not just a void, but a landscape filled with drama, colour, and light. To have this specific vision chosen for the 2026 Open is an honour I don’t take lightly.

Why This Matters

Promoting your own art can often feel like shouting into the vacuum of space (pun intended!), but opportunities like this provide a bridge between the artist and the community. It’s a chance to step out of the studio and engage with fellow art lovers, curators, and creators in the Greater Manchester area.

Visit the Exhibition

If you’ve followed my journey online or via my portfolio, I would love for you to see the textures and scale of “Maelstrom’s Eye” in person. The exhibition brings together a diverse range of voices, and I am so proud to be among them.

• Dates: 14th February – 17th May 2026

• Location: Bolton Museum & Art Gallery, Le Mans Crescent, Bolton.

• Admission: Free

Thank you to everyone who has supported my work so far—whether by visiting my site, sharing my posts, or offering words of encouragement. This is just the beginning of a very exciting 2026.

See you at the museum!