Bold contemporary art. Ambitious creative practice.
Working with learning disabled and neurodivergent artists to develop their creative practice for over 30 years.
Over 30 years of ambitious creativity.
For more than 30 years, Venture Arts has worked alongside learning disabled and neurodivergent artists to develop ambitious creative practices, exhibit their work and build careers in the arts.
From our Manchester studio, artists create work that challenges expectations, sparks conversations and reaches audiences across the UK and beyond.
This month we’re celebrating the work of studio artist Michael Beard.
Michael works across painting, illustration and ceramics. His artwork bursts with colour, movement and overlapping handwritten references to cities, landmarks and places around the world.
Last year, Michael was one of the headline artists at Manchester International Festival, taking over The Lab at Aviva Studios. Plus, this year he’s been nominated for Independent Creative of the Year at the Manchester Culture Awards 2026.
Want to see Michael in action? Watch our short film following his incredible MIF25 experience.
Events & Exhibitions
This year, Venture Arts are delighted to share a stand with artists from Special Arts in Seoul, South Korea, showcasing original artwork by artists from both organisations.
This year, Venture Arts are delighted to share a stand with artists from Special Arts in Seoul, South Korea, showcasing original artwork by artists from both organisations.
Horace Lindezey's Blue Plaques are set to light up Wigan for one weekend this November.
Horace Lindezey's Blue Plaques are set to light up Wigan for one weekend this November.
Will you be our Friend?
Join the Venture Arts Friends Collective and support Venture Arts regularly.
Our first shared goal is to help fund the Venture Arts archive, protecting and preserving Venture Arts artists’ work for the future.
12 new Friends giving £15 a month will help us reach this first milestone.
Prefer to make a one-off donation?
You can also make a one-off gift by clicking the button below.
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