The Pinnacle of Portrait Sculpture in London: Society of Portrait Sculptors “FACE 2026” Exhibition

The Society of Portrait Sculptors, the only forum in Britain dedicated to portrait sculpture, is preparing to open its doors in April for the FACE 2026 exhibition, a tradition now in its 62nd year.

Portrait sculpture is not merely the copying of a face; it is the sealing in three-dimensional language of a person’s character, soul, and stance within time. FACE 2026 will host approximately 100 distinguished works and once again proves to be one of the world’s most important meeting points for contemporary portrait sculpture. The most exciting aspect of the exhibition is that two-thirds of the works have been selected from open submissions from around the world; this gives the show a fresh, innovative, and multi-voiced identity.

Garrison Chapel: Where History and Art Intersect

This year the exhibition is taking place at the Garrison Chapel within Chelsea Barracks, with the permission of The King’s Foundation. This venue, captivating with its historic texture, will provide a magnificent stage for sculptures ranging from bronze to clay, from marble to unusual materials. Not only three-dimensional busts, but also bas-relief works — the more delicate and detailed branch of portrait art — form an indispensable part of this exhibition.

Talent and Prestige: A Shower of Awards

To keep interest in sculpture alive and to reward mastery, many prestigious awards will be presented as part of the exhibition. Here are some of the categories that artists are eagerly awaiting:

Sedlecka Award (£5,000): Awarded for the best three-dimensional human portrait.

Tiranti Award (£500): Crowns the achievement of the most talented young sculptor under 30.

Olin Award (£500): Given for the best “low relief” (bas-relief) portrait.

Material Award (£500): Presented to the artist who uses an unusual material or interprets a material in an unusual way.

Lockbund and Crucible Foundry Awards: Particularly valuable professional support awards that cover the cost of bronze casting, especially for child portraits and emerging young talent.

Sculpture is a touchable memory. Walking along the stone streets of Garrison Square and encountering these faces brought to life in clay and bronze feels like a quiet journey into one’s own essence.

Dates: 13 – 26 April 2026

Venue: The Garrison Chapel, 8 Garrison Square, Chelsea Barracks, London (SW1W 8BG)