Art in the Nave

The 2026 festival will take place over the August Bank Holiday weekend (29–31 August 2026) and will feature up to 40 exhibiting artists together with refreshments, a raffle and charity fundraising activities.
What makes Art in the Nave distinctive is its setting. The exhibition is staged inside St Mary’s Church, a building dating from the 12th century with over 850 years of history, creating a unique atmosphere where contemporary art is displayed alongside remarkable Norman architecture.
Art in the Nave is a volunteer-led visual arts festival held each year in the magnificent Norman church of St Mary’s Church in Hemel Hempstead Old Town. Now in its 8th year, the festival has become one of the area’s most popular cultural events, bringing together artists, visitors, local charities and the wider community.
The festival was created to:
• Support local artists and craftspeople.
• Bring high-quality visual arts to the local community.
• Encourage visitors into Hemel Hempstead Old Town.
• Raise funds for local charities and community causes.
• Celebrate creativity within one of Hertfordshire’s most historic buildings.
Visitors can browse and purchase a wide range of original artwork, including:
• Paintings
• Sculpture
• Ceramics
• Glasswork
• Textiles
• Handmade jewellery
• Silverware
• Photography and prints