TWO COMMISSIONS: 2 artists selected The opportunity The theme The miniatures theme was established to: Acknowledge the 'micro-scale' of the commission Generate an exhibit with the potential to create a small and easily tourable show that can be posted or packed in a suitcase, reducing the costs of transport that are a barrier to many artists. Avoid the storage challenges and costs created for many artists after commissions are complete. Connect with Blackburn with Darwen Borough's rich South Asian heritage and culture, with a nod towards the tradition associated with miniature painting. Artists are welcome to engage with South Asian histories, but this is not a requirement. Create a loose framework for artists to respond to whilst remaining broadly accessible for different types of artists' practices. We want the commission to remain open to a wide range of artists and perspectives. Who can apply Each selected artist will be expected to create a small group of approximately three to five miniature artworks. The final number, scale and format will be agreed with the curator in response to the artist's chosen medium and proposal. The two artists will work with the curator to agree a coherent and appropriate way to present the works. Display options will be developed around the artworks themselves and the Blackburn with Darwen Borough exhibition venue once confirmed. The compact nature of the commission means the finished works may also be stored as a set, and considered for future touring or display in other locations. Artists will have the opportunity for their work to be presented for sale through The Second Act collector database mailing list. How to apply Visit the application page for full details. Email your application as a PDF to [email protected] If you have any access requirements, please email us so we can discuss how best to support you and make the application process accessible and appropriate for your needs.Job Summary
Job Description
ARTIST FEE: £1,000 per artist
APPLICATION DEADLINE: 5 pm, 30th November 2026
The Second Act / Uncultured Creatives is inviting applications from artists with a meaningful connection to Blackburn with Darwen Borough for a micro-commission exploring the theme of Miniatures. Two artists will be selected. Each will receive a fee of £1,000 to develop a new body of work in dialogue with the curator and the other commissioned artist. The commission is offered as part of the Creative Alliance scheme for the Place Based Partnership, funded by Arts Council England.
The theme is deliberately broad. We welcome imaginative responses to miniature scale, detail, intimacy, storytelling, collecting, place or any other direction prompted by the theme. Work may be two-dimensional or three-dimensional and may use any suitable medium, including painting, drawing, print, textiles, photography, mixed media or sculpture.
We are looking for artists with a strong connection to Blackburn with Darwen Borough. Visit the application page for detailsJob Requirements
Useful Links
How to Apply
We have intentionally kept the application simple and accessible. Please send the following:
- A short explanation of your connection to Blackburn with Darwen Borough (Max. 100 words)
- A simple outline of the ideas this theme sparks for you, the concept you may explore, and how you might develop the work (Max. 600 words)
- An indication of the materials, processes and likely outputs you are considering and why exploring this as a miniature work is appropriate (Max. 600 words)
- A link to an accessible website or online portfolio, or a clearly presented portfolio document.
https://www.secondactgallery.co.uk/opportunities
by 30TH NOVEMBER 2026: Applications close at 5 pm