The Visual Art Open (VAO) 2026 Finalist Exhibition, one of the UK’s leading platforms for contemporary art, marks its 10th Anniversary this year with a spectacular showcase at the iconic Minster Building, London, from 8th–11th October 2026.

Since its founding, the VAO prize has championed emerging and established talent from across the globe, offering artists the chance to gain recognition and career-defining opportunities.

The exhibition launches on Thursday, 8th October, with an exclusive VIP Preview Night from 6–8,30 pm, where the overall winner and category winners will be revealed. Guests will experience the finalists’ work in the Minster Building’s breathtaking setting, a City of London landmark admired for its vast glass atrium, Art Deco-inspired interiors, and reputation as a hub for creativity.

The exhibition continues throughout the weekend and is open to the public on Friday 9th and Saturday 10th October from 11am–5pm, and Sunday 11th October from 11am–1pm.

The showcase features 40 finalist works across six key categories: Painting & Mixed Media & Printmaking, Illustration & Drawing, Sculpture, Photography / Digital Art, Student Artist, and the Art Educators Award.

Across the weekend, visitors will also have the opportunity to meet participating artists, take part in artist meetups, and enjoy a curated show round with Karen van Hoey Smith.