Cultural Connections

Cultural Connections is a major programme of contemporary art, archaeology and community engagement developed and commissioned by Somerset Art Works in partnership with the South West Heritage Trust.

Taking place at Somerset Rural Life Museum from 12 September to 5 December 2026, the programme explores the rich cultural heritage that has shaped Somerset across millennia through exhibitions, events and creative participation.

Cultural Connections explores themes of migration, identity and belonging, inviting visitors to reflect on the diverse histories and connections that continue to shape Somerset today.

The programme unfolds across three spaces within the Museum and is a highlight of the Somerset Art Weeks Festival, which takes place from 19 September to 4 October 2026. The Abbey Barn and Granary exhibitions remain on display until 31 October 2026, while the Mapstone Gallery exhibition continues until 5 December 2026.

Abbey Barn – Cultural Connections

The headline exhibition in the Abbey Barn features work by three internationally acclaimed women artists of mixed heritage who live in, or have grown up in, Somerset: Candace Bahouth, Helen Cammock and Gladys Paulus.

Through new and existing work, the artists respond to themes of migration, identity, belonging and cultural exchange, inviting visitors to reflect on the diverse histories and connections that continue to shape Somerset today.

The exhibition is complemented by an Artists in Conversation event, offering audiences the opportunity to hear directly from the artists about their work, inspirations and creative practice.

Mapstone Gallery – Journeys to Somerset: Exploring Cultural Connections Through Space and Time

The Mapstone Gallery presents Journeys to Somerset: Exploring Cultural Connections Through Space and Time. This exhibition brings together fascinating objects from the archaeological collections cared for by the South West Heritage Trust alongside works by contemporary Somerset artists.

Through a dialogue between past and present, it explores the journeys of prehistoric communities who travelled across lands to settle in Somerset, bringing with them new languages, beliefs, skills and treasured objects.

By placing contemporary artistic responses alongside carefully selected archaeological objects, the exhibition reveals enduring stories of movement, exchange and belonging that continue to resonate today.

The Granary – Cultural Conversations

In the Museum farmyard, the restored wooden Granary becomes an intimate gallery space showcasing work created through Cultural Conversations, Somerset Art Works’ engagement programme.

Developed with women from the Glastonbury Conversation Club, the display celebrates creativity, shared experiences and the diverse voices that contribute to Somerset’s cultural landscape today.

Together, these three connected exhibitions invite visitors to explore how journeys, encounters and exchanges have shaped Somerset’s past and continue to influence the county’s communities today.