UK &
International
Emerging Artist
Awards
VAO 2026
FINALIST EXHIBITION
Visual Art Open 2026 Finalists Exhibition
We’re delighted to present the Visual Art Open 2026 Finalists Exhibition, taking place at the iconic Minster Building in London from Friday 9th-Sunday 11th October 2026.
Following an exceptional response from artists across the UK and around the world, our judges have selected an outstanding group of Finalists whose work will be presented as part of this year’s exhibition.
The exhibition offers visitors the opportunity to discover new contemporary artists, view the shortlisted works in person and enjoy a programme of talks and events throughout the weekend.
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Friday 9th October 2026 | 11:00-17:00
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Saturday 10th October 2026 | 11:00-17:00
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Sunday 11th October 2026 | 11:00-13:00
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The Minster Building, 21 Mincing Lane, London EC3R 7AG
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Weekend Exhibition Tickets
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Book your weekend exhibition tickets here.
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Exhibition & Events Schedule
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Friday 9th October | 11:00-17:00
11:00-12:00 | The Power of Patronage: Supporting the Future of Contemporary Art -
12:30-13:30 | Curatorial Walkthrough
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Saturday 10th October | 11:00-17:00
13:00-14:00 | Building an Art Career: Lessons from Working Artists -
Sunday 11th October | 11:00-13:00
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Full event details and booking information can be found via the links above.
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We look forward to welcoming you to the Visual Art Open 2026 Finalists Exhibition and celebrating this year’s exceptional artists and their work.
VAO26 Finalist Exhibition: Weekend Tickets
Join us for the Visual Art Open 2026 Finalists Exhibition at London’s iconic Minster Building. Explore an exceptional selection of contemporary artwork from this year’s Finalists and enjoy a programme of talks and events throughout the weekend, 9th-11th October 2026.
The Power of Patronage:
Supporting the Future of Contemporary Art
Join us for a thought-provoking panel exploring the power of patronage and the role collectors, patrons and creative organisations play in supporting the future of contemporary art. Discover how buying and supporting art can help champion artists, connect with new talent and strengthen the wider creative ecosystem.
Whether you’re an established collector, considering your first purchase or simply interested in discovering new artists, this discussion offers valuable insight into the impact of meaningful engagement with contemporary art.
Speakers: Evelina Gorbačova, Digital Development, FOLLOW.ART; Tabish Khan, Collector, Writer, Critic & Curator; Karen Van Hoey Smith, Curator, Auctioneer & VAA Artist Mentor; and Daniela Bianco, Collector & Chief Sales Officer, Artscapy.
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Friday 9th October | 11:00am-12:00pm
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The Minster Building, London, EC3R 7AG
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Free Event
Curatorial Walkthrough: Visual Art Open 2026
Join curator Karen Van Hoey Smith for a special Curatorial Walkthrough of the Visual Art Open 2026 exhibition, offering an insight into the ideas, themes and artistic practices represented across this year’s selection of Finalists. Explore works across six categories and hear more about the curatorial approach behind the exhibition, with an opportunity to discover the winning artworks announced at the VIP Private View the evening before.
Whether you’re an artist, collector, curator, art professional or simply interested in discovering new contemporary voices, this walkthrough offers a chance to look beyond the individual works and gain a deeper understanding of the exhibition and the artists featured.
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Friday 9th October | 12:30pm-1:30pm
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The Minster Building, London, EC3R 7AG
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Free Event
Building an Art Career: Lessons from Working Artists
As part of the Visual Art Open 2026 exhibition, join us for an honest and inspiring discussion exploring what it really takes to build a sustainable career as an artist. Hear directly from working artists as they share their personal experiences of developing a practice, finding opportunities, building an audience and navigating the challenges of a life in the arts.
Whether you're an emerging artist, student, early-career creative or established artist looking for fresh perspectives, this panel offers practical insights and real-world advice on the different paths an artistic career can take.
Speakers
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Helga Stenzel - International Artist
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VAO Finalist - To Be Announced
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Matilde Tariello - Panel Host & VAA Events & Partnerships Coordinator
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Saturday 10th October | 1:00pm-2:00pm
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The Minster Building, London, EC3R 7AG
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Free Event
