A new group exhibition featuring brand new work by 10 local artists has opened at Union Street Gallery in Grantham. The show includes prints, paintings, photographs, murals, lighting made with crystals and semi-precious stones, furniture, fashion, two conceptual installations and a complete one-ring circus with a rotating elephant.
Year-long professional development programme
The exhibition marks the culmination of a year-long professional development programme run by Grantham Creates C.I.C with a grant from the Angus King Group’s Community Investment Fund. Through the programme, the artists have worked on development plans to advance both their artwork and their business skills.
The project included one-to-one mentoring with experienced arts management professionals, talks and workshops with other artists, a bespoke social media course, and sessions on registering as self-employed and completing a tax return. Artists also received guidance on developing their unique approach to art and making, exploring new materials and techniques, all within the context of seeking and securing opportunities to show and sell their work.
Supporting artists as small businesses
Project lead Jane Millum explained: “Earning your living as a professional artist goes far beyond simply making art and finding places to exhibit. As with all small businesses you have to know your industry, your unique customer base and how to do the day-to-day admin.”
The programme was designed with this in mind and tailored to the needs of each individual practitioner. As a result, the artists have secured placements in other exhibitions and events, started running workshops, developed business plans and funding applications, or applied to go to college. Many will continue to be involved with Union Street Gallery.
Exhibition details and visiting information
The exhibition runs until the end of September and is located upstairs at Union Street Gallery, next to the Lidl car park, in Grantham. Entry is free, and visitors can drop by any time from 10am to 4pm, Wednesday to Saturday. For full details and information on current workshops and classes, visit www.unionstreetgallery.co.uk.
