December 15, 2025
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Opportunities to get involved in PAW 2026

Applications will open on 1 January 2026 for artists wishing to take part in Purbeck Art Weeks Festival 2026, with our festival returning from 23 May to 7 June 2026.

Celebrating the breadth and diversity of creativity across Purbeck, Purbeck Art Weeks (PAW) once again brings together open studios, exhibitions, concerts and other events in distinctive venues throughout Purbeck. You’ll get the chance to discover work by local artists, while seeing artists in action at their studios too.

Alongside our open studio trail, PAW 2026 will present a rich programme of exhibitions and musical performances across Purbeck. This includes the return of our much-loved Rollington Barn collective exhibition, a vibrant showcase bringing together artists working across all disciplines and mediums.

PAW is also delighted to confirm the return of the National Trust and Purbeck Art Weeks partnership exhibition at Castle View, following the success of our exhibition this year. Set against the iconic backdrop of Corfe Castle, the exhibition will feature a curated mix of emerging and established artists and offers a unique opportunity to present work in such a unique spot.

Applications are open to artists working in all disciplines, whether returning to the festival or taking part for the first time.

How to get involved in PAW 2026

There are many ways to take part in Purbeck Art Weeks 2026, whether you are an artist or would like to support the festival behind the scenes.

Opportunities for artists in 2026

  • Rollington Barn Collective Exhibition – an opportunity to apply to exhibit at one of PAW’s most popular and recognisable venues
  • National Trust with PAW Exhibition – offering Purbeck-based artists the chance to exhibit work at Corfe Castle Visitor Centre
  • PAW Artist Bursary – supporting artists at key stages in developing their creative practice
  • Installation at the Byre at Rollington Barn – do you have a great idea for a collaborative and interactive installation?

Applications to exhibit at PAW open on 1 January and close on 31 January 2026. Find out more info here.

Pen and Ink artist Pia Elliot shared her thoughts on taking part in PAW:
“Purbeck Art Weeks Festival is genuinely my favourite two weeks of the year. The Purbecks comes alive with creativity – I love seeing artists sharing new work so generously and creating an atmosphere that’s infectious in the best possible way. As an emerging artist myself, it’s really special to be part of such a supportive community, bringing together artists of the highest level alongside talented hobbyists and those of us in the early stages of our careers. With my creative inspiration rooted in wildlife encounters I’ve experienced in the Purbecks, it feels especially meaningful to share my work within this landscape. It’s a wonderful celebration of creativity, where every unique artistic process is valued and enjoyed.”

Award-winning British sculptor Andrew Thomas SWAc shared his reflections on taking part in Purbeck Art Weeks over the years:

“Purbeck seems to have a creative energy that runs right through it — a kind of vein that artists, including sculptors like myself, have tapped into for generations. Being part of PAW connects me to that shared pool of inspiration, and to a wider community of artists who are equally shaped by this special place.

While I exhibit my work across many parts of the country, it’s here in Purbeck that my creativity truly feels rooted. There’s something incredibly special about showing work in the landscape that inspires you — and even more so when you’re doing it alongside artists you admire, and within a community that genuinely values what you do.”

Volunteer with Purbeck Art Weeks

Purbeck Art Weeks is supported by a dedicated team of volunteers, and volunteering is a rewarding way to be part of the festival and help creativity thrive across Purbeck.

Volunteers play a vital role during the festival, supporting exhibitions and events, welcoming visitors, stewarding, distributing leaflets, and assisting the PAW team behind the scenes. No previous experience is required – just enthusiasm, reliability and an interest in PAW’s work.

Email us at info@purbeckartweeks.co.uk to get involved.