THG has opened their popular Summer Open exhibition to the public.

Out of a record-breaking 185 entries, 93 artworks were chosen to be exhibited at the gallery. All the finalists’ artworks are now on show at THG where the prize winners were announced at the exhibition opening.

The main prize of £750 was awarded to Frances Hatch for ‘3 red Canoes Southbeach’. The Best Emerging Artist prize of £250 (awarded to an artist who either graduated in the last three years or is under 25 years old) was won by Ruth Carter for her artwork ‘Re-place’.

The exhibition was opened by Christopher Hampton, Managing Director of Bearnes Hampton & Littlewood auctioneers, sponsors of the main prize who commented,

“We are honoured to be sponsoring this prize and encouraging the many talented artists living and working in the South West.”

This year’s selection panel consisted of Angela Blackwell (THG curator), Tim Woolgar (Hybrid Gallery owner), Daniel Goddard (Head of Picture Department, Bearnes Hampton & Littlewood auctioneers), Janet Sainsbury (Devon-based artist) and Octavia Madden (member of the THG Youth Group Masterpieces).

Angela Blackwell, THG Curator said:

“We are thrilled to have doubled the number of entries this year which has meant we could showcase more of the region’s artists. All the artworks are for sale and THG is now part of the Own Art scheme so visitors can pay for an artwork in interest-free instalments too.

Don’t forget to come and vote for your favourite artwork. The artist with the most votes will win the Visitors’ Choice Prize!”

THG OPEN 2016 (4 June – 27 August). Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am – 5pm. Free admission. For coordinating activities and Summer Holiday workshops, visit www.thelmahulbert.com