A major new exhibition exploring the diverse cultural heritage of Somerset has opened at Somerset Rural Life Museum in Glastonbury. Cultural Connections is a programme of contemporary art, archaeology and community engagement, developed and commissioned by Somerset Art Works. Opening on 12 September 2026, the exhibition is the headline event of this year’s Somerset Art Weeks Festival (19 September to 4 October).
In the Museum’s historic Abbey Barn visitors can explore work by internationally acclaimed artists Candace Bahouth, Helen Cammock and Gladys Paulus. All three artists are of mixed heritage and have strong connections to Somerset. An accompanying Artists in Conversation event on 10 October provides an opportunity to hear directly from the exhibiting artists as they share their experiences, inspirations and perspectives on art and culture.
In the Museum’s Mapstone Gallery, Journeys to Somerset: Exploring Cultural Connections Through Space and Time brings together archaeological objects from the South West Heritage Trust collections alongside work by contemporary Somerset artists. An accompanying talk by New York Times bestselling-author Charles Fosteron October 1 explores what it means to be human.
In the Granary, visitors can discover felted artwork created by women from the Glastonbury Conversation Club, part of Somerset Art Works’ community engagement programme, Cultural Conversations.
South West Heritage Trust Head of Museums, Estelle Gilbert, said: “This new exhibition is a wonderful example of how museums can bring together art, heritage and community to explore the stories that shape our county. Through contemporary artworks, archaeological collections and community-created pieces, the exhibition invites visitors to discover Somerset’s rich and diverse cultural heritage from fresh perspectives.”
Somerset Art Works Creative Director Carol Carey said: “Somerset’s story has always been one of movement, exchange, belonging and connection. This programme reflects the prominence of these ideas in the lives of artists and communities today.”
The Abbey Barn and Cultural Conversations exhibitions will remain open until 31 October 2026, while the Mapstone Gallery exhibition continues until 5 December 2026. As part of the Somerset Art Weeks Festival Family Friendly Programme, visitors can create a collaborative mosaic with artist Megan Players on 26 September.
For more information and to plan your visit, go to srlm.org.uk.
