Goole Museum Bicentenary Open Art Exhibition Calls for Entries

As 2026 marks the 200th anniversary of Goole's construction as a purpose-built port town, the local museum is inviting artists from across the region to contribute to a landmark exhibition celebrating two centuries of history, industry and community.

Goole Museum has issued a final call for entries for its Bicentenary Open Art Exhibition, which is set to open on Saturday 21 March. All subjects and mediums are welcome — from paintings and illustrations to textiles, sculptures, ceramics and digital art — though entries inspired by Goole's rich heritage are particularly encouraged.

The exhibition follows the success of "Goole-Built: The Story of Goole Shipyard," which ran from 10 January to 14 March and told the fascinating story of the town's shipyard from its Edwardian origins through to its closure in 1987. That exhibition drew visitors from across the East Riding and beyond, proving the appetite for Goole's unique history.

A town like no other

Goole's story is genuinely remarkable. Built in 1826 as a purpose-built inland port by the Aire and Calder Navigation Company, the town was designed from scratch to serve the expanding canal and railway networks that connected the industrial heartlands of Yorkshire to the wider world. Its distinctive "ship-shaped" layout, with streets radiating from the docks like ribs from a keel, is unlike any other town in England.

For two centuries, Goole has thrived on trade, transport and the gritty determination of its residents. The port remains operational today, handling cargo from across Europe and beyond, and the town's identity remains inextricably linked to its waterfront.

"Goole's bicentenary is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate everything that makes this town special," said a museum spokesperson. "The open art exhibition gives artists the chance to interpret Goole's story in their own way, whether that's through a painting of the docks, a textile piece inspired by the town's industrial past, or something completely unexpected."

How to enter

The exhibition is open to artists of all abilities and backgrounds. There are no entry fees, and works in any medium will be considered. Artists are asked to deliver their submissions to Goole Museum, where they will be displayed alongside a curated selection of heritage material and photographs.

For those looking for inspiration, the museum holds a rich archive of photographs, maps and documents relating to Goole's history, much of which is available to view during regular opening hours. The museum team is also happy to discuss potential themes and ideas with artists who are considering entering.

"We want this to be a celebration of creativity as much as a celebration of history," the spokesperson added. "Whether you're a professional artist or someone who's never exhibited before, we'd love to see your work."

A year of celebration

The bicentenary exhibition is just one element of a wider programme of events and activities planned throughout 2026 to mark Goole's 200th anniversary. The museum, which is managed by East Riding of Yorkshire Council's museums service, has been working with community groups, schools and local historians to ensure that the bicentenary is celebrated across the town.

For further information about submitting work or visiting the exhibition, contact Goole Museum on 01405 768963. The exhibition opens on Saturday 21 March and will run throughout the spring.

Goole may not always grab the headlines, but its story — of ambition, industry and resilience — is one that deserves to be told. This bicentenary exhibition is a chance for artists and residents alike to do exactly that.