Organizer Information
Wells Art Contemporary (WAC) is an international competition established in 2012 to showcase cutting-edge visual art. The exhibition is hosted within Wells Cathedral in Somerset, United Kingdom, a site that welcomes 18,000 visitors monthly. WAC provides a platform for artists of all creeds to interact with a space defined by centuries of history and pale stone architecture, curated by a prestigious panel including specialists in art and Christianity and renowned textile artists.
Title & Description
Wells Art Contemporary (WAC) 2026: Site-Specific Installations.
For the 2026 edition, up to twenty artists will be selected to create works that respond to 26 unique locations within the Cathedral’s interior and grounds—ranging from the Chapter House steps to the William de Marche tomb. The central theme, inspired by St. Augustine, is "Time". Proposals should explore this concept broadly, using the Cathedral’s specific spatial and historical context to anchor their vision. This is a project-based opportunity where the artist is responsible for the physical realization and installation of their work within a tight, professionally managed schedule.
Categories
Installation, Sculpture, Visual Arts, and Site-specific Art.
Eligibility
- Open to International and domestic artists.
- Applicants must be over the age of 18 by the deadline.
- All mediums and appropriate sizes are considered for the installation sites.
- Selection is based on the strength of the proposal and its response to the specific site and theme.
Program Benefits and Awards
- Howden Art Award: £2,000 cash prize.
- NG Art Creative Residency: A three-week placement in Provence, France (including board, studio, and mentorship).
- Mentoring Prizes: One-to-one professional development sessions with Parker Harris or Somerset Art Works.
- Specialized Awards: Jane Bowe Memorial Prize (£500 for Somerset artists) and St Cuthberts Mill Award (Paper).
- People’s Choice: £500 for the most public votes.
- Exposure: Exposure to 18,000 monthly visitors in a world-class historic venue.
- Sales: Works may be offered for sale (45% commission applies).
Fees
- Entry Fee: £30 per work (Artists may enter up to 4 works).
- Financial Assistance: Limited funds may be available at the discretion of WAC to assist with transport costs.
Application Requirements
- Proposal: Selection of one of the 26 available sites and a description of how the work responds to that site and the theme "Time".
- Visuals: One primary image/sketch (max 5MB) and up to 4 supporting images.
- Metadata: Title, medium, and dimensions of the total artwork.
- Pricing: Selling price for the whole installation (no individual piece sales allowed).
How to Apply?
Submissions must be made online via the ArtOpps portal. Apply for WAC 2026 Installations
Key Dates
- Submission Deadline: June 30, 2026 (5:00 PM).
- Selection Notification: By August 1, 2026.
- Installation Period: October 1 – October 7, 2026.
- Exhibition Dates: October 10 – November 7, 2026.
- De-installation: November 9 – November 10, 2026.
Location
United Kingdom, Wells Cathedral, Somerset.
Additional Details
Artists are responsible for the installation, de-installation, and insurance of their own work. WAC stewards do not directly supervise individual installations. There is no flexibility on the setup and takedown dates due to the Cathedral's busy event schedule.