Two Carlisle Artists to Appear in Major Northern Art Exhibitions

Two Cumbrian artists based in Carlisle are gaining wider recognition this year with features in major art exhibitions across Northern England.
Emma Evans, a studio artist with Carlisle-based charity Prism Arts, has had her large-scale acrylic painting titled Ripping Off selected for the ArtWorks Together 2026 International Exhibition at the Millennium Gallery in Sheffield. The exhibition, organised by ArtWorks South Yorkshire, showcases more than 70 works by artists from around the world and runs until May 31. The event highlights work by adult artists who are autistic, have a learning disability, or both, providing a global platform for under-represented voices in the arts.
Evans’s work is noted for its distinctive technique involving layered acrylics and masked sections that reveal bold contrasts of colour and form. The inclusion of Ripping Off marks a significant milestone in her artistic development.
Meanwhile, Stuart Irving is preparing to open his first solo exhibition, Light Shape Distance, at Brewery Arts in Kendal on Friday, February 6. The free exhibition runs through May 2 and features an ambitious collection of abstract paintings developed with support from the Prism Arts studio. Irving’s work reimagines landscapes and architectural spaces with a blend of natural tones and vibrant fluorescent accents, drawing inspiration from established artists while maintaining his own distinct style.
Prism Arts said that the success of both artists reflects its commitment to nurturing creative talent and removing barriers to participation in the arts, demonstrating how dedicated support can help local artists achieve wider recognition.