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.Sponsored by GREAT ARTHosted by curator and Art Friend founder Shona Bland, the panel features:

Tabish Khan, leading art critic 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

MEET THE PANELISTSTogether, 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 PickOn 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

Schedule6.30pm: Doors open (the exhibition will be open to view)7.00pm: Introduction by Shona Bland7.10pm: Panel discussion7.40pm: Audience Q&A8.00pm: Informal artist gathering and conversation8.30pm: CloseDetails:25 spaces available£15There will be a bar at the gallery

THE ART OF REJECTION - A Panel Discussion

Lineup