Get ready for an exciting journey into the world of art and creativity! Nine Gloucestershire artists are about to embark on a transformative gallery residency, and we're thrilled to share their inspiring stories.
The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum in Cheltenham has announced a year-long residency program called "We Are Creators," offering a unique opportunity for emerging artists to flourish. But here's where it gets controversial: is this program truly accessible to all aspiring artists, or does it favor a select few?
Nine talented individuals, each at the beginning of their artistic journey, have been chosen to participate. From contemporary ink painters to experimental animators and portrait photographers, the diversity of their practices is a testament to the richness of Gloucestershire's artistic community. These artists will not only have the space and time to refine their craft but will also benefit from regular mentoring, talks, and workshops, providing them with the tools to navigate the often challenging path of an artistic career.
Oliver Tipper, the creative communities producer at The Wilson, emphasized the exceptional caliber of this year's cohort. "The introduction of structured mentoring for every artist is a game-changer," he added, highlighting the program's commitment to supporting artistic growth.
Funded by a National Lottery Project Grant from Arts Council England, the program has already made a significant impact, supporting 24 residencies and delivering five diverse exhibitions since its launch. The 2026 cohort includes:
- Albert Chung: A contemporary ink painter who brings a unique perspective to traditional art forms.
- Jennifer Susan Hughes: A multimedia installation artist exploring the boundaries of art and technology.
- Alice Biggadike: A surrealist painter and costume designer, blending fantasy and reality.
- Katy Mary: An interdisciplinary artist pushing the boundaries of creativity.
- Eddie Langham: A performance artist engaging with audiences in unique ways.
- Atul Bhunkal: A painter and performer, bringing a dynamic presence to the art world.
- Sarah Fox: An experimental animator, crafting captivating visual stories.
- Richard Woods: A figurative painter and woodcarver, capturing the essence of the human form.
- Steven Tatlow: A portrait photographer, capturing the beauty of human expression.
Each resident artist will receive dedicated studio space, peer support, and individual mentoring, creating a nurturing environment for their artistic growth. Bo Lanyon, a Bristol-based artist and doctoral researcher leading the mentoring program, understands the challenges artists face. "My goal is to help these artists build the resilience and confidence to establish their unique voice," Lanyon said.
This program is a testament to the power of mentorship and community support in fostering artistic talent. But here's the part most people miss: it's not just about the artists; it's about the impact they have on the wider cultural community. How do we ensure that these opportunities are inclusive and accessible to all aspiring artists? And what role can the community play in supporting and celebrating local talent?
As we celebrate the launch of this exciting residency program, we invite you to join the conversation. What do you think about the importance of mentorship in the arts? And how can we ensure that programs like these are truly inclusive? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let's spark a discussion that inspires and uplifts our artistic community!
