Oldham Artist Network
Oldham Artist Network is a meeting place for creative people to gain advice and network with other professionals working in the creative industries. Local artists and makers, voluntary and community sector workers and individuals with an interest and passion to work creatively in their local community are all welcome.
The meet ups are the ideal place to find out more information about opportunities, funding, further events plus link up with like-minded artists.
Artist Network dates for 2026/27:
- Thursday 10th September, 6-7.30pm, at Hack Oldham
- Thursday 12th November, 6-7.30pm, at Gallery Oldham
- Thursday 14th January, 6 – 7.30pm, venue TBC
- Thursday 11th March, 6 – 7.30pm, venue TBC
- Thursday 13th May, 6 – 7.30pm, venue TBC
- Thursday 8th July, 6 – 7.30pm, venue TBC
- Thursday 9th September, 6 – 7.30PM, venue TBC
- Thursday 11th November, 6 – 7.30pm, venue TBC
Artist Newsletter
Are you an artist or creative with a link to the local area? Sign up to join our artist database, and receive the monthly artist newsletter to find out about all the latest funding advice and creative opportunities. We are in the process of changing email platforms so please email jenny.allen@oldham.gov.uk if you wish to be added to the mailing list.
Artist Advice Sessions
The Creativity and Culture team aims to support you and to help bring your creative ideas to life. For a one-to-one advice session on funding or to discuss project proposals/ideas, and more, please contact: culture.team@oldham.gov.uk
GM Arts Access Bursaries for Oldham
In partnership with GM Arts, Oldham Council is pleased to offer bursaries of £100 to £500 to freelance creative practitioners who live in Oldham. The bursaries are designed to support professional development and help individuals build their careers within the creative sector.
Funding can be used to help cover the costs of attending training courses, workshops, conferences, networking events, or other opportunities that will support the development of your creative practice.
Supporting Creative Development
We understand that the costs associated with professional development can present a significant barrier for freelance creatives. The GM Arts Access Bursaries aim to remove some of these barriers by helping cover expenses that are not always supported through other funding programmes.
Eligible costs may include, but are not limited to:
- Travel and accommodation
- Childcare or caring responsibilities
- Time away from paid work
- Attendance fees for training, events, and networking opportunities
Our aim is to ensure that creative practitioners can access valuable development opportunities regardless of their personal circumstances or financial situation.
Further Information
While we hope to support as many creatives as possible, funding is limited. If the scheme is oversubscribed, bursaries will be awarded based on applicants meeting the eligibility criteria and clearly demonstrating how the funding will contribute to their creative and professional development.
No additional evidence will be required beyond the information provided in a successful application to confirm eligibility.
At the end of the funded activity, recipients will be asked to complete a short evaluation form explaining how the bursary has supported their professional development.
All funded activity and evaluation forms must be completed by 1 March 2027.
Interested in applying
Applications for Round 1 2026 have now closed watch this space for further rounds in Autumn 2026.
Access Support
If you would prefer to submit your application in a video format to meet access requirements, or if you have any questions about the bursary scheme or application process, please contact:culture.team@oldham.gov.uk
Gallery Oldham – Gallery One
Supporting local artists and makers is a priority for Gallery Oldham. Gallery One, formerly our Community Gallery shows a wide range of exhibitions by groups and individuals with links to Oldham. If you are interested in submitting an exhibition proposal for consideration please see the link above for further information.
Live@thelibrary Open
We are offering support for new and emerging work through our new Live@Open programme. We are offering up to £500 and three days rehearsal space to help support artists in the development of their work. To receive more information on how to apply contact culture.team@oldham.gov.uk
Oldham Library Business Resources
The libraries have a wide range of specialist resources to help to support local businesses. Visit the Business page for information on everything from business planning, marketing, workshops and help and tax queries.
Arts Council England
For the latest advice, guidance and opportunities please see https://www.artscouncil.org.uk.
Greater Manchester Artist Hub
If you’re an artist, theatre-maker, freelancer, creative, company, or producer based in Greater Manchester — we’d like to talk to you. If you want to talk through your creative ideas, or get advice on issues that are causing you concern, or simply develop your network & stay connected — please sign-up below for a 30 minute chat with us.