Artists from across Sandwell are invited submit work to The Public’s annual Summer Exhibition and have a unique opportunity to display their work within the Black Country art gallery for free.

In 2012 over 120 local artists with a connection to the region submitted close to 300 pieces of artwork to the exhibition, varying from a 3D model village by Sense Day Service, a deafblind charity based in Smethwick, to an acrylic painting of former West Bromwich Albion manager and current England coach, Roy Hodgson, by Les Bennett.

Now in its fourth year, the annual exhibition aims to actively encourage creativity within the local community by nurturing talent and providing residents the opportunity to showcase their work to a mass audience, alongside established names.  The region is rich in artistic talent and The Public are looking to celebrate this artistic excellence.

This year’s Summer Exhibition will have the theme ‘People and Places’.  Artists are invited to submit up to three pieces of work in a variety of mediums, including painting, drawing, photography and printmaking.  All artwork selected for the exhibition will be displayed from Wednesday 20 July to Sunday 28 September 2013 alongside work from both upcoming and internationally renowned artists.

To submit work for consideration visit www.thepublic.com/summer-exhibition or collect an application form from The Public.

Linda Saunders, Managing Director of The Public said: “We’re thrilled to once again be calling out for local artists to help us celebrate the diverse talent in the region.  The Summer Exhibition presents and excellent opportunity to have artwork displayed professionally in an amazing space – and would encourage everyone to get involved.”

The closing date for submissions is Saturday 1 June 2013 and applicants will be notified by Wednesday 19 June.

The work will be selected by The Public’s exhibitions team and wider staff, alongside representatives from the local community.

The Summer Exhibition runs from Wednesday 20 July to Sunday 28 September 2013, Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm and Sunday, 11am to 3pm.

The exhibition forms part of Sandwell Arts Festival, taking place across the borough from Monday 12 to Saturday 24 August 2013.

For further information about exhibitions at The Public please call 0121 533 7161 or visit www.thepublic.com.