You Wouldn’t Steal an Art Show

Location: The Zoo, Hill Street Shopping Centre, Middlesbrough, TS1 1TB

Dates: Thu 25 Sep - Sat 4 Oct

Hours: 12pm - 5:30pm  Wed - Tue (closed 28th and 29th) 

Access: Lift Access

Artists: TBC Open Call

  • The Werd is a collective which believes in the liberty of expression, where every voice carries a message that deserves not only to be heard but celebrated. In a world where creativity is often stifled, the organisation stands firm in its conviction that art is essential, a vital force for a vibrant, thriving society. The Werd exists to facilitate the beautiful chaos of ideas, emotions, and experiences, empowering both artists and audiences to express what moves them.

    Guided by a deep commitment to freedom, The Werd embraces the boundless possibilities of imagination and the daring edge of creation. Thriving within the rapid pulse of change, it welcomes the unexpected and champions the unconventional.

    Through its work, it forges connections that transcend boundaries, weaving together a living collage of creativity that reflects the diversity and dynamism of its community.

    At its heart, The Werd is dedicated to unleashing the power of art, transforming lives, inspiring action, and igniting a spirit of collaboration. More than just a platform for creation, it seeks to reshape the world around us through collective vision and expression.

about the show.

This open-call group exhibition invites artists who’ve faced rejection from other open calls. Its core principle is radical inclusivity - every submission will be accepted until the space is full. The title references the early-2000s anti-piracy ad, Piracy - It’s a Crime, which compared downloading movies to stealing cars. 

This exhibition critiques systemic barriers in the art world and opens a space for everyone. It’s an attempt to allow as many artists as space permits to show their work, fully utilising ‘meanwhile space’ whilst defining radical inclusivity in its installation.

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