AN EXHIBITION of artwork and crafts by the creative stars of the future will open next Saturday at a Farnham gallery.

Rising Stars 2020 at New Ashgate Gallery will feature work by 26 emerging makers in crafts, design and applied arts.

The participants are graduating students or recent graduates whose potential and talent has impressed a professional panel of experts.

Some 96 applications were reviewed by panellists from the gallery and the University of Creative Arts for the curated six-week exhibition.

There’s a top prize of £500 up for grabs but the makers don’t enter for the money, as it could be a launch pad for a long and successful career.

“Many of the makers have recently completed an MA or BA but are at a crossroads,” said New Ashgate Gallery director, Dr Outi Remes.

“They might have a full portfolio of fabulous ideas, but are yet to establish their business skills and a network of collectors.

“Rising Stars offers just the right platform, and for many, it is a staring point to an exceptional career. It’s also an opportunity for both the makers and art collectors who wish to support and collect new work by future stars.”