Now in its sixth year, Wales Contemporary offers artists the opportunity to showcase their work in Milford Haven, celebrating the richness of Wales’ landscape, heritage, and contemporary culture through two and three-dimensional works, film and animation.
Developed in 2019 by the Waterfront Gallery with the support of the Welsh Government and the Port of Milford Haven, the competition has become a significant platform for artistic talent.
For the first time in its history, film and animation will be included alongside traditional and contemporary visual art forms this year. By welcoming film and animation, organisers say Wales Contemporary 2026 reflects the evolving nature of artistic practice while maintaining its core mission of celebrating creativity with a strong connection to Wales.
The exhibition’s shortlist and award winners have been selected by a panel of accomplished judges, including:
Tim Davies
Originally from Pembrokeshire, Tim studied in London, Norwich and Canterbury and later led the fine art course at Swansea College of Art, receiving a personal professorship in 2012. Tim has exhibited extensively in Wales, across the UK and internationally.
Laura Thomas
An award-winning textile artist and designer, Laura is known for producing innovative textiles for contemporary spaces. A graduate of Birmingham University and the Royal College of Art, she has worked across public art, commercial design and curation.
Sarah Williams
A graduate from Aberystwyth University with a degree in fine art, Sarah's work is rooted in Welsh myth, culture and environment and explores storytelling and place through painting and intricate hand-painted cut-outs.
The exhibition will take place at the Waterfront Gallery from Saturday 29th August - Saturday 26th September. The awards ceremony will take pace at Sybil House on Saturday 29th August (by invitation only).
Everyone is welcome to visit the Waterfront Gallery and experience the diverse range of works on display.
Open Monday to Saturday 10:30am - 4:00pm.
Closed on Sundays.
