A major open art exhibition showcasing creative talent from across Central Wales has returned to Llandrindod Wells for its second year.

The 2026 Here Be Dragons Central Wales Open Art Exhibition officially opened at the Auto Palace on Thursday, July 9, with an exclusive preview for artists, sponsors, judges and invited guests.

Around 200 artworks have gone on display after being selected from this year's entries by an independent judging panel. The exhibition features paintings, sculpture and photography, with visitors now invited to vote for the People's Choice Award before the exhibition closes on Sunday, July 26.

Guests at the preview event at Llandrindod's Auto Palace
Guests at the preview event at Llandrindod's Auto Palace (.)

The exhibition was launched in 2024 by a group of local artists and creative volunteers who wanted to establish a high-quality open exhibition in Llandrindod Wells that was accessible to the local community, for both artists and art lovers alike.

Following the success of its inaugural year, the event has continued to grow in both scale and reputation.

Sarah Hill, chair of the Here Be Dragons committee, said the standard of entries had exceeded expectations.

“I am so thrilled with this year’s exhibition,” she said.

"The quality of submissions has blown us all away and I know the selection panel found their job to be incredibly challenging.

"Everyone has worked so hard to make this year's exhibition happen and we're all really proud of the end result."

She also praised the support the exhibition has received from sponsors and the local community.

"Here Be Dragons wouldn't happen without the support of our local community. The generosity of our sponsors has been amazing and because of them we've been able to put on an exhibition of such high standard at this local level,” she said.

"It is bringing quality art to people who might not otherwise get the opportunity to see it whilst also giving new talent the opportunity to be seen."

This year's independent selection panel featured local sculptor Nick Lloyd, gallery founder Punch Maughan and artist Sandy Craig, while artists Kate Milsom and Mark Halliday selected the category prize winners.

The exhibition has received backing from Powys County Council, Llandrindod Wells Town Council, local businesses and arts organisations across Radnorshire.

Council leader Cllr Jake Berriman said he was pleased to support the event once again through his Community Grant Fund.

"It is money well spent to see such a collection of great local art and the talent of our artists on display once again," he said.

"It's so good to see the almost fully-let Auto Palace brought to life again with all this colour and creativity.

"Events like this highlight that our lively creative community continues to thrive and deserves your support. Do get along and see for yourselves and who knows, next year you may just be tempted to enter too!”

The Here Be Dragons Central Wales Open Art Exhibition is open daily from 10am to 7pm until Sunday, July 26. Admission is free and all of the artwork on display is available to buy.

For more information, visit: www.herebedragons.wales