At OBSCURA, we believe in the power of surreal photography to reveal the unseen, provoke thought, and expand the boundaries of artistic expression. Our mission is to create a platform that champions bold, unconventional voices from around the world—while grounding the experience in the rich cultural landscape of North Wales. We celebrate diversity, support inclusivity, and provide space for emerging and established artists alike to connect, exhibit, and inspire. Through exhibitions, talks, and community engagement, OBSCURA invites everyone to step beyond the ordinary—and into the extraordinary.
We are dedicated to nurturing new voices in surreal and conceptual photography. From students and emerging artists to mid-career creators seeking new directions, OBSCURA offers opportunities for professional development, international exposure, and meaningful connection. Through open calls, mentoring, exhibitions, and workshops, we create space for artistic growth, experimentation, and risk-taking.
Everyone starts somewhere—we want to be that ‘somewhere.’
We believe that the future of the arts is diverse, inclusive, and radically open. OBSCURA is built on the principle that powerful art can come from any background, culture, identity, or discipline. Our programming actively supports underrepresented voices, and we are committed to creating a festival that is accessible—physically, financially, and emotionally.
This isn’t just policy. It’s who we are.
Wales has always been a land of legends, dreams, and deep artistic roots. OBSCURA is proud to reinvest in that heritage by bringing high-quality, contemporary creative programming to North Wales. At a time when funding for the arts is under threat, we see it as our responsibility—and our joy—to reconnect people to art in real, tangible, and powerful ways.
Through partnerships with local venues, artists, and communities, we are helping to revive the cultural life of the region—one image at a time.
Unlike traditional festivals, OBSCURA crosses borders—geographical, conceptual, and disciplinary. Our exhibitions don’t just hang on walls. They spark dialogue. They provoke emotion. They live in historical estates, community spaces, and experimental formats.
We celebrate handmade work, analogue processes, digital art rooted in craft—and we do not accept AI-generated submissions. We value the human hand and the haunted heart.
To make North Wales an international centre for surreal photography and creative experimentation.
To empower a new generation of image-makers.
To build an inclusive, curious, and connected community through the power of art.