Exploring the place of learning disabled artists in contemporary art

Back in October 2018 artist Anne-Marie Atkinson began her PhD research with us, through a partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University. For her thesis entitled, ‘Challenging Outsider Art: How are learning disabled artists informing contemporary art’, Anne-Marie immersed herself in the daily life of the Venture Arts studio…   Of course in early 2020 that became … Continued

Venture Arts Public Engagement Assistant, Amber Okpa-Stother, is a crucial member of the Venture Arts team, advocating for people with learning disabilities and representing Venture Arts by doing public talks. Being autistic herself she talks passionately about the need to celebrate difference and recognise the many great things people with learning disabilities can contribute.    … Continued

Our Warm-hearts Winter Challengers have been dancing, walking, running and doing push-ups to raise much-needed funds for Venture Arts. Their efforts are paying off. So far, they’ve raised a combined total of almost £2,000! They aim to take the total past £2,500 with a little help from their friends, family and Venture Arts supporters.   … Continued

We’re thrilled to announce that Venture Arts artist Horace Lindezey’s work is to be presented at this year’s London Art Fair: 20th – 31st January. This year marks the 33rd London Art Fair and due to the current national lockdown they are offering a digital Fair for 2021. Despite this, the fair continues to provide … Continued

New prints and face masks available. Shop now for unique gifts or a treat for yourself!   We’ve a range of new products in our Big Cartel shop, including brand new prints from artists Andrew Johnstone, Leslie Thompson and Amy Ellison. Shop now for Christmas delivery! Orders must be made by midday on Friday 18th … Continued

Michael Nash has been attending Venture Arts workshops for nearly two years. He has taken part in the Arts Award, the Cultural Enrichment Programme and he recently created the artwork used to promote our current Warm-hearts Winter Challenge.   Michael is a true Venture Arts talent and we were thrilled he agreed to get involved … Continued

Be a Warm-hearts Champion and raise funds for Venture Arts!   It’s getting chilly as winter approaches. At Venture Arts we count ourselves very lucky to have the support of so many warm-hearted people and organisations, to sustain us through these tough times.   This support helped us to develop online artistic and social programmes … Continued

Young artist Laura K makes dream dress in lockdown with talented textile artist Eloise Pierce. Our Young People’s Art Club, funded by BBC Children in Need, has not stopped this year despite our studio being closed. Online projects are designed for each individual artist, tailoring their interests and nurturing their talents. Young artists get the … Continued

Fancy supporting our artists to develop their talents and learn exciting new skills? Of course you do! Well this is one of the easiest opportunities you’ll get… Become a Co-op Member and select Venture Arts as your local cause.    We’re thrilled to announce we have been selected as a Co-op Local Community Fund (LCF) … Continued

Three Venture Arts artists featured in ’50 Windows of Creativity’ – Manchester’s new city art trail.   Wild in Art, the people who brought us ‘Bee in the City’ in 2018, are back this autumn with a new art trail. Manchester is host to ’50 Windows of Creativity’, a showcase of the work of artists … Continued