Work in progress in the studio, 2018.
Work in progress in the studio, 2018.
Artists First is our name. We chose it and that's important. Choosing to be called an artist first gets rid of the bad names. Being known as artist first before anything else, changes things; it changes attitudes.
Artists First is a group of disabled artists with learning difficulties based in Bristol. There are currently 14 members of the group. The studio is led by its members and they meet at the Bristol Plays Music centre in Southmead, as well as visit galleries and host workshops by visiting artists. They have had many exhibitions over the years, in Bristol, the UK and internationally.
Two co-ordinators help run the studio and a group of trustees and other supporters manage the funding and other aspects of the organisation.
Artists First receives no regular funding and is supported by grants, donations and sales of work.
Andy has worked with Artists First for nearly all of the 30 years it has existed.
Louise is an artist. She studied Drawing and Applied Art at UWE, Bristol. She started as a volunteer with Artists First in 2005 after coming to an open studio event. Louise became a paid member of the team in 2015. "It's an incredible experience, being involved with the artists and seeing their progression. The artists have transformed my perception of art."
Michael brings a wealth of experience as an engagement producer arts project manager to his position of Trustee.
Pauline has a longstanding interest in the arts and supporting people with learning disabilities, so being a trustee with Artists Firsts brings these different strands together in a positive and productive way.
Working with the artists at Artists First is a particular delight to Felicity as she is also an artist herself, and has exhibited in group shows across Bristol, with her first solo show in 2016.
Some of our most popular paintings (such as Breadhorse by Carol Chilcott, left) are available as prints. Browse the gallery to see what else is available.
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We love exhibiting and talking to people about our work. If you can help us do this please get in touch.
Artists First currently receive funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Artists First is also supported by donations and the sale of work.
