Wells Cathedral is known as one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Europe. Its interior has wide, high, uncluttered spaces, monumental scissor arches, a fan-vaulted octagonal Chapter House and some of the finest medieval stained glass in the country. On the Cathedral’s South side is a quadrangle of stone-vaulted, medieval cloisters adjacent to the Camery Garden. This is a quiet, contemplative open space with a view of the famous springs from which Wells takes its name.

The 2025 Installation Proposals will be selected by:
Cathy De Monchaux, Turner Prize shortlisted sculptor, whose work can be displayed in collections across the globe and numerous public commissions
Laura Moffat, Director of Art and Christianity and Editor of its quarterly journal

The deadline to enter proposals for Site Specific Installations is the 1st July 2025

AWARDS

Artists taking part in Wells Art Contemporary will have the chance to win a wide range of prizes:

Howden Art Award: £2,000 to one artist
NG Art Creative Residency: a two-week placement at NG Art Creative Residency in Provence, including board and lodging, studio space, and mentorship.
Jane Bowe Memorial Prize: £500 to a work by a Somerset artist chosen by Martin Bowe.
The Grace Student Prize: £250 awarded to a current fine art student aged under 26 enrolled on a recognised Bachelor or Masters Fine Arts course. Generously donated by Tracey Grace.
Parker Harris Mentoring Prize: a one-to-one mentoring session covering all aspects of professional development to a selected artist.
Somerset Art Works Mentoring Prize: a one-to-one mentoring session to an artist based in Somerset.
St Cuthberts Mill Award: 20 sheets of Saunders Waterford 300gsm worth over £120 to an artist who works on paper.
People’s Choice Prize: £500 to the artwork which received the most public votes.