Free Art Exhibition Celebrating 30 Years of AA2A Opens at University of Chester
Free Art Exhibition Marks 30 Years of AA2A at Chester

The University of Chester is hosting a free exhibition marking the 30th anniversary of the Artists Access to Art Colleges project, showcasing an inspiring collection of work from local artists, former students, and university staff.

Exhibition Details

The exhibition opens at the Kingsway Creative Campus and runs until Thursday, August 13. Opening hours are Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm, with no booking required.

Since its launch in 1996, AA2A has supported more than 70 colleges and universities, as well as thousands of aspiring artists. The programme provides specialist facilities, studios, equipment, and teaching expertise that have contributed to the growth of generations of artists.

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Notable Alumni

AA2A alumni include Turner Prize winner Helen Cammock and Turner Prize nominee Thomas Goddard, as well as Venice Biennale exhibitors Emily Speed and Hannah Leighton-Boyce.

Artist Testimonial

Current AA2A artist resident Christine Gallagher said: "My residency has been life-changing and transformative beyond all expectation. It has helped me grow as a person as well as an artist and has led to my decision to go for the art degree I missed out on when I was young."

University Commitment

Associate professor Bernadine Murray, head of the School for the Creative Industries, added: “We are delighted to welcome the AA2A 30th Anniversary Exhibition to Creative Campus, Kingsway. Our partnership with AA2A reflects our belief that artists, students, graduates and communities all benefit when creative practice and education come together. We are particularly grateful to the colleagues whose vision, hard work and commitment have made this exhibition possible. Their efforts demonstrate the significant contribution our School continues to make to supporting artists, fostering creative development and strengthening cultural opportunities within the region and beyond."

The exhibition is located in Chester, Cheshire.

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