‘Bridging Fantasy Across Time: In Conversation with Sidney Sime’
Co-curated by Jacob Heayes
This call is open to all artists who are interested in exploring the intersection of fantasy art and gaming. Whether you are an emerging artist, a professional, or someone working within the gaming industry, we encourage diverse submissions from all backgrounds.
We have selected a few of Sime’s iconic artworks for you to respond to. These pieces are rooted in themes of myth, imagination, and otherworldly creatures, providing a rich foundation for your creative interpretations. The final exhibition (taking place in November 2025) will explore how these fantastical worlds, first captured in Sime's paintings and illustrations, continue to inspire the realm of video games and gaming culture, especially within the dynamic landscape of Guildford, the UK's hub for the gaming industry.
What We Want From You:
Interpret the selected works of Sidney Sime (listed below) through any medium you choose, whether it's painting, sculpture, digital art, video game design, interactive media, or mixed media.
Explore how Sime's fantastical themes of mythology, the supernatural, and otherworldly landscapes can be reinterpreted and connected to the narrative and visual landscapes of today’s gaming industry.
We are particularly interested in submissions that reflect on how fantasy art influences game design, world-building, character development, and the immersive experiences that modern video games provide.
Submission Guidelines
Deadline for submissions: 1st October 2025
Format: Submissions should be sent to submissions@newhouse.art (digital files for digital artworks, high-quality images of physical works can be sent via a wetransfer link or a google drive link)
Accepted mediums: All mediums are accepted, including but not limited to: painting, sculpture, digital art, video game concepts, mixed media, and interactive installations. Please ensure all digital submissions are in high resolution.
Please provide your name, a description of your work, an image if the the work is physical and/or file type, medium and size in your submission email.
submissions will not be selected if you do not provide us with the relevant information
The exhibition will take place in November 2025, if you are selected we will email you with all the relevant information for installation and opening reception.
About Sidney Sime
Sidney Sime (1865–1941) is celebrated for his otherworldly illustrations, particularly his collaborations with fantasy writer Lord Dunsany. His fantastical landscapes, mythical creatures, and dreamlike imagery have inspired generations of artists, storytellers, and creators. Sime’s works not only evoke escapism and wonder but also connect deeply to the essence of storytelling that still informs modern fantasy worlds, particularly in video games.