A vital platform for visibility, opportunity, and equity
Women in Art Fair (WIAF), the UK’s leading fair dedicated exclusively to women artists, returns for its fourth edition, bringing together a dynamic programme of exhibitions, awards, and events designed to address the ongoing imbalance in the global art market.
At a time when women represent over half of practising artists yet account for less than 10% of global auction sales, WIAF continues to provide a vital platform for visibility, opportunity, and equity.
The 2026 edition will showcase a curated selection of emerging and established artists, connecting them with collectors, galleries, and institutions in an intimate and engaging setting. Approximately 600 Open Call applicants were whittled down to 80 for this year’s Women in Art Fair. Their work presents a fascinating ‘picture’ of contemporary art at this moment in time.
WIAF 2026 is guided by an esteemed Selection Committee led by curator, art dealer, and cultural strategist, Virginia Damtsa; including Christian Levett – founder of Femmes Artistes du Musée de Mougins (FAMM); Batia Offer – former Chair of the Royal Academy Trust; Brigitta Freund – interior designer; artist & protégée of Tracy Emin, Vanessa Raw. The selection process is conducted through a blind review focusing on originality, technical strength, and storytelling.
At the heart of Women in Art Fair is a commitment not only to showcase artists, but to actively support and elevate their careers. The prize programme plays a vital role in recognising outstanding talent and providing meaningful opportunities for artists to gain visibility, mentorship, and professional development at a crucial stage in their journey.
A highlight of this year’s programme is The Christian Levett WIAF Prize, created in partnership with renowned collector and museum Director of FAMM Christian Levett.
This award recognises artistic achievement, with the added opportunity for his selected ‘One to Watch’ artist to be promoted on Levett’s personal platform — offering invaluable international exposure.
In addition, the Young Masters Prize will provide mentorship for three selected artists, supporting their development and guiding them through the next stage of their careers.
The Hunger Magazine Prize offers a unique and high-profile opportunity, with the winner being photographed for the front cover of the magazine, alongside editorial exposure that connects artists to a global audience. Together, these prizes reflect WIAF’s dedication to nurturing talent, building careers, and ensuring that artists are not only seen — but supported.
This year WIAF will host a Creative Health & Wellbeing Day on Saturday 9 May, partnered with Crystal Clear Holistic Health Ltd. This dedicated programme explores the vital relationship between art, creativity and health through a series of panel discussions, workshops and restorative practices. Highlights include a panel on Why Art? Why Creativity? featuring Daisy Fancourt, June Mineyama-Smithson, Jacqueline Harvey and Sadie Clayton, alongside yoga, sound therapy, creative workshop with Emmi Salonen and a book signing. The event reflects a growing recognition of creativity as an essential tool for supporting wellbeing in an increasingly fast-paced, technology-driven world.
Oxo Gallery, Oxo Tower Wharf, Barge House St, London SE1 9PH
7-10 May 2026
Thursday 7 – 9 May: 11am – 6pm
Sunday 10 May: 11am – 5pm
