wells art contemporary 2026: site-specific installations
Wells Art Contemporary (WAC) is an international competition showcasing innovative visual art across all genres. Established in 2012 and open to artists worldwide, WAC offers a unique opportunity to exhibit in the magnificent setting of Wells Cathedral — often described as “the most poetic of the English cathedrals” and the first Gothic cathedral in England. This beautiful space welcomes 18,000 monthly visitors and offers an inspiring welcome to all artists, regardless of creed, with its pale stone, ethereal light and soaring architecture. The 2026 exhibition will run from 10 October to 7 November 2026. All entries will be considered by a prestigious panel of selectors, and artists will have the chance to win a wide range of prizes, including cash awards, residencies, mentoring and more. Work may also be offered for sale during the exhibition. There are two ways to participate:
Exhibit in the Gallery: Selected artworks will be shown in a white-wall gallery specially built within the Cathedral cloisters. Work in any medium—including painting, drawing, sculpture, print, photography, video, digital, textile, and mixed media—will be considered. The WAC team will handle the hanging and display of all works.
Create a Site-Specific Installation: Artists are invited to propose installations for the Cathedral’s interior or grounds, creating work that directly engages with this extraordinary space. If selected, artists will install their own work.