Liverpool Sculpture Prize 2026 Opens for Entries with £2,500 Award
The Liverpool Sculpture Prize has officially launched its call for entries for the 2026 edition, marking the third year of this prestigious public art competition. Organised by the Liverpool Business Improvement District in partnership with Liverpool Parish Church, the prize is open to all sculptors living and working across the United Kingdom. The winner will receive a £2,500 prize fee and the opportunity for a 12-month public display in a prominent city centre location, significantly enhancing their visibility and impact.
Application Details and Judging Process
The application window opens on Sunday, February 8, 2026, and will close on April 8, 2026. A distinguished judging panel, comprising representatives from the arts, business, and creative communities, will carefully evaluate all submissions. The selected winning sculpture is scheduled to be unveiled to the public in June 2026, adding a new artistic landmark to Liverpool's vibrant cultural landscape.
Prestigious Display Location at Liverpool Parish Church
The chosen artwork will be exhibited at Liverpool Parish Church, either on the Chapel Street plinth or within the church gardens that offer stunning views over the city's waterfront. This site has a rich history of hosting notable public art installations, including Brian Burgess's Christ on a Donkey and various pieces featured in the Liverpool Biennial, ensuring the sculpture will be seen by thousands of visitors and locals alike.
Celebrating the 2025 Winner: Ben Stephenson's Laminae
Last year's prize was awarded to Wirral-based artist Ben Stephenson for his compelling work, Laminae. This cylindrical sculpture, crafted from rammed earth, draws inspiration from Stephenson's travels in South America. The piece thoughtfully explores themes of time, erosion, and regeneration, demonstrating how public art can provoke reflection and connect communities to broader narratives.
Impact and Vision for Public Art
Katie Bentley, Director of Strategic Partnerships and Communications at Liverpool BID, expressed her admiration for Stephenson's winning piece, stating, "Ben's winning work last year is one of my favourite pieces of sculpture and it has given me a lift every time I walk past it. It shows the impact public art can have in animating the public realm and helping us connect to our shared stories." She emphasised that the prize seeks artwork that is thought-provoking, eye-catching, and engaging, capable of enriching the daily experience of the many people who frequent this bustling area.
This initiative underscores Liverpool's commitment to fostering artistic talent and integrating meaningful art into public spaces, encouraging applications that resonate with diverse audiences and contribute to the city's cultural dynamism.
