!Bring on the Bling!
Bring on the Bling! aims to represent the indomitable spirit of humanity and its inherent capacity to find, create, and disseminate exuberance, beauty and light, even when enveloped by the shadows of societal and environmental crises. It is an ode to hope and a testament to the enduring power of positive expression.
At its heart, the show will illuminate the juxtaposition between the grim realities of our times and the power of bling to bring a little joy and zing to our lives.
It explores how opulence, unfettered glitz, and dazzling, eye-catching aesthetics can serve not merely as escapism, but as sources of protest, social critique, and radical, defiant optimism.
Whether the artists' primary motivation stems from political commentary on societal and environmental issues, an exploration of escapism and consumerism, or a purely aesthetic study of visual delight, the guiding principle for execution remains consistent: make it as blingtastic as possible!
The Curator would like to share these artworks as examples to illustrate their thinking:
Curator Kate McMahon-Parkes
Curated by Kate McMahon-Parkes
My artistic practice explores the delicate balance between human and non-human realms, aiming to illuminate the profound connections and tensions that define our existence within these spheres. I employ a multimedia and research-driven approach, utilising techniques such as sculpture, glasswork, performance, and photography.
Often using humour and irony, my work is particularly focused on materials and materiality, investigating how materials and colours interact to evoke an emotional response from the viewer. Ultimately, my art seeks to foster an inquisitive dialogue about our collective responsibility to nurture and respect the intricate tapestry of life, while contemplating our own place within it.
I am a member of Cotswold Sculpture Association, Stroud Artist Cooperative, Walking the Land and the Walking Artist Networks, and am currently undertaking a Master’s in Fine Art at Bath Spa University.
How to apply
Fringe Arts Bath Festival will take place 22 May to 6 June 2026
Submission deadline: Friday 10th April 2026 at 23h59 GMT
Media accepted: All
Free submission. All are welcome to apply, of any age, status, and from anywhere in the world.
If selected, we ask Artists for a £25 contribution (like crowdfunding) and to give some of their time, as we are all volunteers.
Please read our FAQs here to find out more.See all 17 projects open to submissions on our home page: fringeartsbath.co.uk
To submit your work: please email the curator bling@fringeartsbath.co.uk including:
NB: please include the exhibition / project name in the email title.
max 200 words about your work and how it fits the call-out (written, audio file, video or another way to suit you).
some images of the work, or links to video / performance work (or existing work if it hasn’t been made yet).
any relevant links, if you have them (though it’s not a requirement and Curators might not have the capacity to visit them all).
of course please include any questions you have.
you might not hear back from Curators until after the deadline, thank you for your patience.