A new photography exhibition at Stonehenge is showcasing the work of three emerging artists under 25 as they explore the contemporary meaning of ancient stone circles.
As part of English Heritage’s youth engagement programme Shout Out Loud, and in collaboration with national arts charity Photoworks, Echoes: Stone Circles, Community and Heritage offers young artists a platform to creatively reinterpret prehistoric places as they engage with their communities and consider their relevance to young people today.
Drawing inspiration from stone circles around England, the artists use photography to challenge perceptions of heritage, foster belonging, and uncover untold stories.
Stonehenge is perhaps the most famous stone circle, making it a fitting site for this exhibition. However, the British Isles are home to over 900, including 14 cared for by English Heritage. This exhibition focuses on three remarkable stone circle sites – Arbor Low, Nine Ladies, and Kingston Russell – chosen independently by the artists from over 250 free-to-enter sites managed by the charity that span thousands of years of history.
The artists’ images of these ancient landscapes offer unique perspectives on heritage, identity, and community, reflecting a new generation’s search for connection and belonging.
English Heritage’s prehistorian, Dr Jennifer Wexler, commented, “It’s so exciting to see how these talented young artists have brought these ancient sites to life in such personal and powerful ways. Through their work, they show us how stone circles still connect the past with the present, linking personal histories to community and memory to belonging. These sites, once places where people came together, continue to inspire us as symbols of connection, belonging, and meaning.”
Juliette Buss, Head of Learning and Engagement at Photoworks, added, “We are delighted to partner with English Heritage to bring the work of these three young artists to such an iconic location where so many people will experience the view from their lens this year. The project offers a new way to look at prehistoric sites, through the medium of photography and how young people today view these landscapes.”
Echoes: Stone Circles, Community and Heritage runs until Sunday 7 September 2025 at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre. Admission is free to Stonehenge ticket holders, English Heritage and National Trust Members and Local Residents Pass Holders. Book your tickets online at www.english-heritage.org.uk and save 15%.
