In an exciting development for the local art scene, nine emerging artists from Gloucestershire have been chosen to participate in a residency program at a renowned gallery. The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum in Cheltenham made this announcement on Tuesday, revealing that these talented individuals will engage in the year-long initiative titled "We Are Creators."
This program offers more than just a place to create; it provides artists with invaluable opportunities for mentorship, participation in talks, and workshops designed to enrich their professional journeys.
Oliver Tipper, who serves as the creative communities producer at The Wilson, expressed enthusiasm about the artists involved this year. He remarked, "The level of talent among this year's cohort is remarkable." He emphasized that the addition of structured mentoring for each artist enhances the program significantly. Tipper looks forward to witnessing how this nurturing environment will influence their artistic practices and contribute positively to the broader cultural community.
Supported by a National Lottery Project Grant from Arts Council England, the "We Are Creators" program has already facilitated 24 residencies and showcased five distinct exhibitions since its inception.
The 2026 group of artists includes: Albert Chung, known for his contemporary ink paintings; Jennifer Susan Hughes, who specializes in multimedia installations; Alice Biggadike, a surrealist painter and costume designer; Katy Mary, an interdisciplinary artist; Eddie Langham, a performance artist; Atul Bhunkal, who works as both a painter and performer; Sarah Fox, recognized for her experimental animations; Richard Woods, a figurative painter and woodcarver; and Steven Tatlow, a portrait photographer.
Each resident artist will benefit from dedicated studio space, along with peer support and personalized mentoring. They will also have opportunities to showcase their artwork in person at the gallery, which is a fantastic platform for exposure.
Leading the mentoring efforts is Bo Lanyon, a Bristol-based artist and doctoral researcher. Lanyon understands the complexities of maintaining an artistic career alongside daily responsibilities. "My goal is to assist these artists in developing the resilience, confidence, and connections necessary to advance their work and establish their unique artistic voice," Lanyon stated.
What do you think about supporting emerging artists in such initiatives? Do you believe programs like these can truly make a difference in their careers? We invite you to share your thoughts and engage in the conversation.
