The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum is proud to share that it has received a National Lottery Project Grant from Arts Council England. This vital funding will support the next phase of We Are Creators – The Wilson’s artist development programme that champions emerging talent and strengthens creative networks across Cheltenham and Gloucestershire.

Since its launch, We Are Creators has provided 24 early-career artists with studio space, mentoring, and professional development through its artist residencies. The programme has delivered four exhibitions in the Community Gallery, worked with six local creative partners, and presented 21 Wilson Nights – free public events celebrating performance, visual art, and community engagement.

With the support of Arts Council England, We Are Creators will now grow further over the next two years to include:

• 14 new artist residencies
• 2 new exhibitions
• 24 Wilson Nights events
• A broader network of community partnerships

Oliver Tipper, Creative Communities Producer at The Wilson, said:
“We Are Creators is not just a platform for artists – it’s part of a wider ambition to position Cheltenham as a centre for creativity, where artists and designers are supported, visible, and valued.”

Previous resident artists also reflected on the programme’s impact:
“It gave me the confidence to truly believe in myself as an artist,” said Tolmeia Gregory.
“It helped me develop as both a painter and a workshop facilitator,” added Zack Thorne.

Applications for the next Artist Studios Programme open in August and will remain live throughout September. Visual artists working in Cheltenham and Gloucestershire are encouraged to apply.

Find out more and apply:
www.cheltenhammuseum.org.uk/we-are-creators