This year, we are 'bringing the Open into the open.' Instead of a traditional gallery, the DAF26 Didsbury Summer Open will transform local businesses into a vibrant art trail across the heart of Didsbury Village. We invite artists from across Greater Manchester to submit their work and become part of this unique community-wide exhibition.

The Cecile Elstein Art Prize

In honour of the late Cecile Elstein—a world-renowned local sculptor and printmaker—we are proud to announce a special £250 Art Prize. This award will be presented to an artist whose work best reflects our festival theme, Visible Invisible, and demonstrates exceptional creative spirit.

How to enter

Submissions are open to all artists (professional or amateur) aged 18+ living in the ten boroughs of Greater Manchester.

• Format: We are seeking 2D works only (painting, print, drawing, or photography).

• Theme: Inspired by Visible Invisible—how does your work blur the boundary between art and the everyday?

• Submission: Up to 3 works may be submitted via our Online Form between 11th April and 5th June 2026.

• Fees: A handling fee of £5 per work applies (waived for students or those under 19).

• Sales: Artists may choose to sell their work. DAF takes a 20% commission (0% for students/young artists) to support future festival events.

Key dates for your diary

• Submissions Close: Friday, 5th June 2026

• Artist Notification: Week commencing 8th June 2026

• Delivery Day: Wednesday, 24th June 2026

• Exhibition Dates: Saturday, 27th June – Sunday, 5th July 2026

• Prize Giving Celebration: Sunday, 28th July, 7:30 pm at Didsbury Baptist Church

• Collection of Work: Monday, 6th July 2026

Framing & display

As your work will be displayed in public venues, it must be ready to hang with secure D-rings or screw eyes. All works on paper must be framed (no clip frames).

Ready to showcase your work to thousands of festival visitors?