Glass Art Society Announces Artists for the 2026 British Glass Biennale Flagship exhibition
28 August – October 2026, at The World of Glass, St. Helens
The British Glass Biennale is back in 2026 as part of the International Festival of Glass, presenting a diverse range of works from both established and emerging glass artists working across the UK.
Organised by the Glass Art Society (GAS), the British Glass Biennale has been a flagship exhibition within the glass art world for over 20 years, and is the largest selling event of contemporary glass art. Showcasing artists from across the UK, it attracts an international audience looking to discover contemporary developments within glass art, both in technique and subject matter.
‘The British Glass Biennale is a highlight of the glass art calendar’ says GAS Executive Director, Brandi Clark. ‘The exhibition provides an opportunity for both established artists, and those who are at the start of their artistic careers, to share their works and ideas with a national and international audience. It is a fantastic opportunity to learn about new techniques and concepts being explored by contemporary glass artists.’
Artists taking part in the British Glass Biennale were selected from almost 400 applications by a panel of jurors. Alongside international jurors Tami Landis and Jeff Sarmiento, was British glass artist Louis Thompson. With over 30 years experience in glass art, as well as a former winner of the Biennale Best in Show award, Louis, alongside his fellow jurors, brought a wealth of experience and knowledge to the panel.
Commenting on the process, Louis explained ‘The task of any juror is never easy. I was impressed by the diversity and volume of submissions, the standard of work was high in all disciplines and
demonstrated richness, depth, and the quality of British glass today. Working with my fellow jurors, we discussed, debated and expressed our views before agreeing to the final selection. The selected artists engage in a visual dialogue, creating a landscape, which showcases intent, skilland conceptual understanding.’
Artists selected to exhibit their work in the Biennale include Alison Kinnaird, Colin Reid, Phillipa Candy, Camilla Bridgewater, Bruno Romanelli, and Jeff Zimmer.
Opening to the public on Friday 28th August at The World of Glass, St Helens, UK, the exhibition will run until the end of October 2026.
A further two exhibitions are held as part of the International Festival of Glass and will run alongside the British Glass Biennale – the International GAS Member Exhibition, and the
International Bead and Jewellery Exhibition. A full list of selected artists will be available on the GAS website.
As the largest selling exhibition of contemporary glass in the UK, and with almost 200 artists represented across all three exhibitions, collectors, visitors, curators, and anyone with an interest in glass art will be able to see a range of styles, methods, and concepts from some of the leading glass artists working today.
About the British Glass Biennale
The British Glass Biennale is dedicated to showcasing the best in contemporary glass art in the UK. Held every two years, it provides a platform for artists to present innovative work and engage with a global audience. The Biennale is supported by a number of charities and organisations who provide awards for exhibiting artists. In 2026, these include the British Society of Master Glass Painters & The Worshipful Company of Glaziers, The Worshipful Company of Glass Sellers, the Guild of Glass Engravers, Bullseye UK, and Warm Glass UK.
About the International Festival of Glass
The International Festival of Glass takes place in the UK every two years. In 2026, the venue for the Festival is The World of Glass, St Helens, UK. Taking place from the 28th – 31st August 2026, as well as the three exhibitions, visitors can expect to see live demonstrations, talks, activities, evening events, and community projects. The Festival acts as a hub for networking for artists, collectors, curators, and industry professionals. It is also a great opportunity for anyone with an interest in glass art to find out more about contemporary glass art.
About the Glass Art Society
The Glass Art Society (GAS) is an international, not for profit organisation with the mission to connect, inspire, and empower all facets of the global glass community. Along with other international events, such as the GAS Annual Conference and GAS Travel Programme, GAS is responsible for the management and development of the International Festival of Glass.
Contact
For further details or enquiries, please contact Jennifer Allison, GAS Events and Programme Manager: jennifer@glassart.org
