Following the annual exhibition of proposals in May, we have selected three artists who are currently building their installations which will be launched in May 2026. Joanna Manousis creating cast glass salt cellar and mirrored architectural finials which will be illuminated in the cellars; David Kenny is designing a forced perspective tromp-l'oeil theatrical space inspired by Seaton Delaval architect John Vanburgh; and Wilfred Sears will be carving recycled stone motifs in public which will be sited across the estate.

I established the North East Emerging Artist Award, working with Seaton Delaval Hall's General Manager Emma Thomas, as an annual award  for final year students or early career artists. The award provides mentoring and opportunities for artists to develop site specific work in an historic context. Each spring eight artists are shortlisted and funded to make a design proposal for an exhibition in the historic stables. Three proposals are then selected through a public vote, and then I support and mentor the artists to realise their project as an installation for the following year. We have shaped the award to be open to artists from all artforms including music, sound, theatre, film, fashion, literature and design as well as fine art and to be aimed at supporting  artists in or from the North East who are in the final year of their undergraduate degree, studying for a masters’ degree, who have graduated in the last three years or equivalent. The award’s aim is to showcase site-specific contemporary art in a historic context and to encourage emerging artists to develop proposals at the hall.

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