08/10/2020
NOW OPEN:
The Very Revd Dr John Davies, Dean of Wells Cathedral, and Paddy O’Hagan, Chair of Wells Art Contemporary, have unveiled the WAC2020 exhibition at the Cathedral along with some of the other WAC volunteers!
“The Cathedral and WAC are of a piece. We understand each other,” says the Dean, “We are here to bring peace to human hearts in a very troubled time”.
The physical exhibition of shortlisted works in this year’s open art competition cannot be held due to COVID-19 restrictions. But a large screen in the South Transept has been installed to ensure that the exhibition can still be viewed by visitors to the Cathedral.
“The idea that cutting-edge contemporary art can resonate with the 850-year-old architecture of the Cathedral is such a powerful concept,” explains Paddy, “We felt compelled to ensure it continued in some form this year. Hopefully we will be back to displaying the actual art within the magnificent surrounds of the Cathedral for WAC2021”.
Despite all the challenges of 2020, WAC has managed to retain its twin rationale: to support and inspire artists, and to offer local people an opportunity to experience the best of international contemporary art - on their doorstep.
The screen will remain in Wells Cathedral until 1st February. Votes for a favourite work can be made by visiting the virtual exhibition at www.wellsartcontemporary.co.uk/2020-wac-awards
Image 1: Edwin Aitken, Inner and Outer Skins, shortlisted for WAC 2020
Image 2: The Dean of Wells Cathedral unveiling the virtual WAC 2020 exhibition
