UK International Festival of Glass 2026 call for entries

Submissions for the UK International Festival of Glass (IFoG) 2026 have opened. Taking place every two years, the Festival has established itself as the leading event for glass in the country.

For 2026 the event moves to the North West of England for the first time, under the new leadership of the Glass Art Society (GAS). Activities will take place in St Helens, Manchester and Liverpool over 27-31 August 2026.

The British Glass Biennale exhibition forms a major part of the IFoG, showcasing the work of the most prestigious British artists and artists living and making in the UK. This juried exhibition will be on display at The World of Glass in St Helens until the end of October 2026 and will include a digital exhibition hosted on the GAS website. Artists can submit up to three works for consideration but only one will be included in the exhibition.

Also part of the Festival is the International Bead and Jewellery Biennale, which is open to bead and jewellery makers worldwide. This juried exhibition will be held at The World of Glass in St Helens. All submissions must be predominantly made of glass but can include other materials. All glass techniques are welcome, but works must not be part of a production line. Up to three pieces can be submitted, but inclusion may be limited to one, depending on space.

A new exhibition for 2026 is the International GAS Member Exhibition. This juried exhibition will be shown at The World of Glass in St Helens until the end of October and a selection of pieces will then move to the gallery at London Glassblowing for display in November. Applicants must be GAS members on 15 November 2026 to qualify. All forms of glassmaking and video documenting glass-related performance pieces can be entered.

For all three exhibitions, entries must be made by 1 March 2026. There is no fee to submit but GAS will take a commission on sales. Successful entrants will be responsible for shipping to/from the venue.

Find out more and submit via this link.