Organizer Information
Established in 2012, Wells Art Contemporary (WAC) is an international competition that provides a unique stage for innovative visual art. The exhibition takes place within the historic Wells Cathedral, the first Gothic cathedral in England, which attracts approximately 18,000 visitors per month.
Title & Description
Wells Art Contemporary 2026.
This competition invites artists worldwide to submit work across all subjects, styles, and media. Selected pieces are displayed in "The Gallery," a professional white-wall setup along the cathedral's cloisters. The initiative aims to showcase contemporary creative talent within a space defined by pale stone and ethereal Gothic architecture.
Categories
Painting, Drawing, Sculpture, Print, Photography, Video, Digital, Textile, Ceramic, and Mixed Media.
Eligibility
- Open to artists based in the UK and internationally.
- Applicants must be over the age of 18 on 1 January 2025.
- Current fine art students (under 26) are eligible for a reduced entry fee.
Program Benefits and Awards
- Cash Awards: Including the Howden Art Award (£2,000), Simon Gillespie Studio Painting Prize (£2,000), and the People’s Choice Prize (£500).
- Residencies: The NG Art Creative Residency offers a three-week placement in Provence, France.
- Mentoring: Professional development sessions provided by Parker Harris and Somerset Art Works.
- Exhibition & Sales: Opportunity to exhibit in Wells Cathedral and sell work through WAC’s online shop (45% commission applies).
Fees
- Standard Entry: £20 per work.
- Fine Art Student Entry (under 26): £12 per work.
- Maximum Entries: 4 works per artist.
Application Requirements
- Digital image of work (max 5MB).
- Full details: Title, medium, dimensions, and price.
- Maximum dimensions: 3.5m (W) x 2.5m (H) x 2m (D).
- Video artists must provide their own display equipment.
How to Apply?
Entries are submitted exclusively via the online portal on the official WAC website.
Key Dates
- Submissions Deadline: Tuesday 11 August 2026, 5 PM.
- Selected Artist Notified: Friday 28 August 2026.
- Exhibition Dates: 10 October – 7 November 2026.
- Private View: Friday 9 October 2026.
Location
United Kingdom, Wells, Somerset (Wells Cathedral).
Additional Details
The 2026 selection panel includes sculptor Abdollah Nafisi, painter Anne Magill, and muralist/painter Neequaye Dreph Dsane. Artists are responsible for the delivery, collection, and insurance of their works.