THE ART OF REJECTION - A Panel Discussion

THE ART OF REJECTION - A Panel Discussion

Thursday 10 July 2025
-  Thursday 10 July 2025

REJECTION PANEL TALK at ‘REJECTS’ - hosted by Art Friend

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Rejection is a universal experience for creatives, whether it’s from galleries, open calls, funding applications or even social media algorithms. Rather than shy away from it, Art Friend is opening up the conversation.
Join us for an intimate, informal evening of discussion and connection at the REJECTS exhibition in Stoke Newington, where a panel of creative professionals will explore how rejection can be reimagined, not as a failure, but as a creative catalyst.

Hosted by curator and Art Friend founder Shona Bland, the panel features:
  • Tabish Khan, leading art critic, podcast host and champion of accessible art
  • Jo McLaughlin, curator, art historian and host of the Jo’s Art History podcast
  • Phoebe Minson, creative coach, curator and former gallerist

Find out more about the panelists HERE

Together, they will share experiences and insights around the realities of rejection in the creative industries and how to use it to build confidence, motivation and creative momentum.
The discussion will be followed by a Q&A and time to chat and connect with other artists over a drink.

Artist Award: Panel's Pick
On the night, our panel will also select one outstanding artwork from the REJECTS exhibition.
The selected artist will receive:
  • A complimentary day at Stoke Pop-Up to exhibit their work
  • A £75 gift card from GreatArt to spend on art materials
  • A one-to-one mentoring session with Shona Bland of Art Friend
  • A blog feature on the GreatArt website
  • The opportunity to host a workshop in GreatArt’s flagship London store
This award is designed to offer visibility, support and professional development to an emerging artist whose work deserves to be seen.

Topics to be discussed include:

  • Understanding rejection in the art world
  • The emotional impact of rejection and how to manage it
  • How to turn a 'no' into creative momentum
  • Redefining success on your own terms
  • Stories of rejection that led to unexpected opportunities
  • Building resilience and confidence
  • Practical advice for navigating the creative industries
Schedule
6.30pm: Doors open (the exhibition will be open to view)
7.00pm: Introduction by Shona Bland
7.10pm: Panel discussion
7.40pm: Audience Q&A
8.00pm: Informal artist gathering and conversation
8.30pm: Close

Details:
25 spaces available
£15 per artist
There will be a bar at the gallery

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1 comment

Can I book a ticket for the Rejection Panel discussion?

Jane Dickins

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