Southport’s historic elegant Wayfarers Arcade is hosting a brand new art fair. It will take place when Royal Birkdale hosts the Open Golf championship, that will bring a quarter of a million visitors to Southport from across the globe. The fair will take place inside Southport’s Wayfarers Arcade inside what was originally designed as a gallery space in the early 20th century. 

We are seeking applications from contemporary artists whose work demonstrates quality and originality.  This includes independent makers, artist, design collectives and galleries specialising in, but not limited to, fine art, craft and design.

There are two ways to take part, either enter artwork for free to be sold on a commission basis or pay for an exhibition space.

ART ON COMMISSION will charge 40% commission, 10% of which will be donated to Southport’s Bebe’s Hive CIC that provides creative support for grieving children. Here, your art will be showcased in a curated, invigilated exhibition, and sold through centralised sales.

EXHIBITION SPACE offers artists and galleries a 2m x 2m exhibition space for £200, with options for larger areas. Here artists and galleries can design, hang and steward their allocated exhibition area, including managing their own sales. Artists that choose to take an exhibition space will not be charged commission and will be given access to art storage.

An art wrapping service will also be provided.

Applications are now closed for our 2026 fair. 

It’s free to apply for the art fair. Selection will be done by a panel to ensure a balanced, high-quality art fair that reflects the breadth of contemporary making. Exhibitors are encouraged to apply before the application deadline and will be notified of the panel’s decision within 5 working days of applying. The application steps are listed below.

Step 1. Fill in the application form

Start by completing the application form at the bottom of this page and submitting it. We’ll need you to tell us whether you would like to submit art on commission or take an exhibition space.

Step 2. We review your application

The panel will carefully look over your application and artwork to make sure it fits the criteria.

Step 3. You’ll hear back from us

We’ll contact you within 5 working days to let you know the outcome. When you’re accepted, we’ll send you more details about the fair.

Step 4. Complete your booking

Confirm your place. Artists requesting an exhibition space should pay fees in advance to guarantee a place. Then you’re all set to exhibit at the fair.