An Ashton-under-Lyne bar and cultural hub is inviting artists from across the region to showcase their creativity in a new group exhibition opening on November 21.
The Nico Ditch, an independent, artist-led bar and event space on Old Street, has announced an open call for submissions under the rallying cry “IA – Instigate Art”.
The organisers are seeking work across all media – from painting and photography to sculpture, film, and performance – but stress that absolutely no AI-generated art will be accepted.
In their announcement, The Nico Ditch team issued a passionate challenge to artists to reclaim creativity in an age of information overload:
“Black mirror, mass media, doom scroll fever. We witness atrocities before our first brew, then swipe right for corgi-on-a-skateboard lols. What’s wrong? We have access to more information than our minds can manage, yet we’re paralysed by overstimulation. But what about your local area? What about your heart? What makes it beat? And what about your art?”
The callout encourages local artists to respond quickly — submissions must be sent to nicoditchashton@gmail.com by midnight on November 3, including examples of work, information about their practice, and a short statement about why they want to take part.
The group show builds on the success of The Nico Ditch’s previous open call earlier this year, which inspired a wave of creativity and collaboration among emerging and established artists alike.
A still from The Sight Is a Wound, a film by Parham Ghalamdar with cinematography by Dean Kasper of Caustic Coastal, accompanies the announcement — reflecting the venue’s ongoing support for independent and experimental visual work.
Beyond exhibitions, The Nico Ditch has become a cornerstone of Ashton’s growing cultural scene, hosting regular film screenings, live music, DJ nights, workshops, and queer community meet-ups. With its welcoming atmosphere, craft beers, fine wines and cocktails, it continues to champion creative expression in all its forms.
For more information or to get involved, follow @thenicoditch on social media or visit the bar Wednesday through Sunday to see what’s on.