New artists-in-residence announced at The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum

The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum in Cheltenham has unveiled its latest cohort of talented new artists-in-residence under the We Are Creators programme.

Established in 2022, this pioneering scheme continues to empower emerging local talent, offering vital support to early-career artists while enriching Gloucestershire’s creative arts.

Artworks by Grace Gatley, Adam Rush & Emily Oswald

Starting in January, the eight new artists will embark on a 12-month residency at The Wilson. Working across diverse disciplines – including sculpture, print, collage, textiles, mixed media and ceramics – they will have access to dedicated studio and exhibition space.

As well as supporting creative communities across the county, this programme gives individual artists the time and space to help develop their practice and build successful careers in the visual arts sector.

In addition to showcasing their work in the Sir Charles Irving Community Art Gallery, the artists will contribute to The Wilson’s programming by delivering engaging workshops and events throughout the year.

The We Are Creators scheme not only nurtures local talent but also fosters community engagement. In exchange for the bursary, each artist dedicates 12 days to hosting public workshops, inviting visitors to explore various artistic disciplines.

The 2025 residents are:

• Sammi Fletcher – a multidisciplinary artist whose work spans various media.
• Loz Apperly – a writer, musician and short filmmaker.
• Emily Oswald – a sculptor and printmaker.
• Grace Gatley – a mixed media embroidery artist.
• Jussara Nazare – a multidisciplinary artist specialising in jewellery, fashion, paintings, and print.
• Harriet Hughes – a mixed media artist working in prints, collages, ceramics, and textiles.
• Helena Doyle – a multidisciplinary artist, filmmaker, and educator.
• Adam Rush – a sculptor and ceramicist.

Artworks by Helena Doyle, Harriet Hughes, Loz Apperly

The 2025 cohort has been carefully selected by The Wilson’s Creative Community Panel, which represents a diverse range of communities from the local area, reflecting different perspectives and voices.

Lisa Edgar, Director at The Wilson, said: “We are delighted to welcome our new cohort of resident artists to The Wilson. This community is an invaluable creative resource for both the museum and Cheltenham, as the artists share their practice with the wider community through the We Are Creators programme. In return, they benefit from free studio space and professional development opportunities.

“This incubator programme for early-career artists, designers, and makers fosters a thriving local creative economy, contributing to the growth of culture in the region.”

More information on We Are Creators can be found at www.cheltenhammuseum.org.uk/we-are-creators