The Art of Sleep -
Rituals of Transition
My exhibition explores the idea of being “The Art of Sleep - Rituals of Transition" ,the things we do, the quiet rituals, habits and fleeting moments we experience before drifting into dreams. It is a space for reflection, imagination and the subtle details of everyday life that often go unnoticed. As part of this, I am creating a ceramic helter skelter populated with animals, moving through the alphabet as they slide down, I enjoy thinking about how each one might go, head first or bum first, bringing a sense of fun into the work.
I will be accepting submissions across a range of disciplines, including ceramics, textiles, painting and photography, and I welcome diverse interpretations of what we do before we drift off!
What We’re looking for from artists:
I am looking for artists who are excited to explore, experiment and share work that feels personal, thoughtful and engaging. I welcome a wide range of approaches, but am particularly drawn to work that shows curiosity, originality and a strong sense of material or concept.
I encourage submissions from artists at all stages of their journey. Whether your work is playful or contemplative, polished or experimental, I value authenticity and a willingness to take creative risks. Above all, I am looking for work that invites viewers to wonder, laugh and connect.
Media accepted
ceramics, paintings and drawing, mixed media, textiles, photograpy, stone sculptures
limitations or Guidlines
no as long as it hits the brief
How to apply Details
Email me to Lisaloweceramics@gmail.com
Deadlines
1st May 2026
Workshops or Events
mOODBOARDS + EXAMPLES:
about the curator:
Lisa Lowe
I am a ceramic artist and teacher based in Swindon, I'm deeply passionate about working with clay and sharing its possibilities with others. I love experimenting with form, texture and process, embracing curiosity and the unexpected in my practice. This year, my work is inspired by the idea of being “on The Art of Sleep” the quirky rituals and small, familiar actions we return to before drifting into out dreams.
I have been part of SWAF for the past two years, and I’m delighted to be involved more closely this time, helping to run the exhibition as well as exhibiting my own pieces. This year, I’m challenging myself by building a ceramic helter skelter, pushing scale and structure in new ways and stepping out of my comfort zone
Why did you want to get involved with SWAF26?
I wanted to get involved with SWAF26 because it’s such a supportive and inspiring community of artists, and it offers a wonderful space to share work and ideas. Having exhibited for the past two years, I’ve really valued the connections and conversations that come from being part of it.
This year, I am very excited to take that a step further by helping to run the exhibition as well as exhibiting my own work. It’s been a great opportunity to contribute behind the scenes, support other artists, and be more deeply involved in shaping SWAF26 as well as having the personal opportunity to explore clay in a new way
