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IW Open Studios 2026 Showcase Exhibition Now Open at Quay Arts

The IW Open Studios 2026 Showcase Exhibition is open at Quay Arts - offering visitors an exciting preview ahead of this year’s Isle of Wight Open Studios event in May.

Featuring work from over 90 participating artists, the exhibition celebrates the depth, diversity and creativity of the Island’s artistic community and provides the perfect starting point for planning your Open Studios trail. This year, more than 200 artists will take part in IW Open Studios 2026, opening their studios, galleries and creative spaces across the Island from 15–25 May.

The Showcase Exhibition was formally opened by Isle of Wight High Sheriff - Nigel Hartley, who reflected on the importance of creativity and artistic expression during his opening speech: “Creative practice doesn’t begin in everyday language, and we often struggle to fully describe the depth of thought and process behind each piece.”

Running from 18 April – 30 May 2026, the exhibition gives visitors the opportunity to discover artists, explore a wide range of styles and mediums, and begin mapping out which studios they would like to visit during Open Studios itself.

Visitor Information

Please note: the lift at Quay Arts is currently out of service. Access to the West Gallery is via stairs only at this time.
The first floor remains open, and a 360° virtual tour of the exhibition is available here: View the virtual exhibition tour

Exhibition Details:

Quay Arts, Newport, Free entry
Open daily, Mon–Sun, 9am–4pm
Exhibition runs until 30 May 2026
 

IW Open Studios, 15–25 May 2026
Plan your visits and explore participating artists here: IW Open Studios Map