Celebratory exhibition at University to mark arts organisation’s 30-year anniversary
A free exhibition showcasing the work of talented artists will be held at the University of Chester.
As part of the Artists Access to Art Colleges’ (AA2A) 30-year anniversary, the University will host the celebratory exhibition at the Creative Campus, Kingsway, where the work of supporting artists, alumni and contributing colleagues will be shown.
Since its official launch in 1996, AA2A has supported more than 70 colleges and universities, as well as thousands of aspiring artists. The programme has provided specialist facilities, studios, a range of equipment and teaching expertise that have all contributed to the growth of generations of artists. This exhibition aims to celebrate the organisation’s effect on artists’ lives and support provided over the years, as well as its continued commitment to supporting students.
AA2A alumni include Turner Prize winner Helen Cammock and Turner Prize nominee Thomas Goddard, plus Venice Biennale exhibitors Emily Speed and Hannah Leighton-Boyce.
Current AA2A artist resident with the University of Chester, Christine Gallagher, said: "My residency has been life-changing and transformative beyond all expectation. It has helped me grow as a person as well as an artist and has led to my decision to go for the art degree I missed out on when I was young."
Associate Professor Bernadine Murray, Head of the School for the Creative Industries, added: “We are delighted to welcome the AA2A 30th Anniversary Exhibition to Creative Campus, Kingsway. Our partnership with AA2A reflects our belief that artists, students, graduates and communities all benefit when creative practice and education come together.
“We are particularly grateful to the colleagues whose vision, hard work and commitment have made this exhibition possible. Their efforts demonstrate the significant contribution our School continues to make to supporting artists, fostering creative development and strengthening cultural opportunities within the region and beyond."
A private viewing for the AA2A exhibit will be held in the CASC gallery at the Kingsway Creative Campus on Thursday, July 16, from 5-8pm, with free tickets available here. The exhibition is then open to the public until Thursday, August 13. Opening hours are Monday-Saturday, 10am-4pm, and no booking is required.