Entries are now open for Ilminster Arts Centre’s 2026 Photography Open Competition.
Everyone is welcome to enter and all forms of photography will be accepted, including traditional, digital and cameraless images, which can either be printed on paper, metal, textiles or 3D forms. Photographs must have been taken in the UK in the last 24 months. No AI images will be accepted.
There will be a £300 cash prize for the winner, sponsored by Greenslade Taylor Hunt, and £150 each for two runners-up, part-funded by Portcullis Lodge No. 2038 in Langport. In addition, a fabulous one-week artistic residency, at Awakenings at Wick on the Somerset Levels, will be awarded by the expert panel of judges.
The deadline for entries is 6pm on 29 August 2026. For details and to enter visit: https://www.ilminsterartscentre.com/photography-open-exhibition-2026
Bryony Tidball, Ilminster Arts Centre’s manager, said: “We’re delighted to launch our 2026 Photography Open Competition, building on the success of our popular Art Open Exhibitions. This national photography competition is open to all. It’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and showcase the very best photographic talent across the UK.
Our judges look forward to receiving a wide variety of eye-catching, inspiring and imaginative submissions.”
Shortlisted entries will feature in an exhibition at Ilminster Arts Centre from 6 October to 13 November 2026, with the winner being announced on 7 October at a special event to which all will be welcome.
Chris Watts from principal sponsors Greenslade Taylor Hunt said: “As a leading estate agent, with an office in Ilminster, commercial photography plays an important part in our business, so we jumped at the opportunity to support this exciting initiative from Ilminster Arts Centre.”
Ilminster Arts Centre is a multi-arts charity established 30 years ago. Based in a former church in the centre of the Somerset town, it offers a busy programme of exhibitions, performances and workshops, plus a café and a gift shop of products from local craft-makers. For more information visit www.ilminsterartscentre.com
