Manchester, particularly when thinking of it as Greater Manchester not just the city, is a vibrant area for the arts ranging from community and artist led endeavours to long running institutions with new graduates, established artist and emerging older artists all producing a wide range of interesting work. Manchester has always been a place of passion, forward thinking and revolt and this comes through in its art.
Nerissa Cargill ThompsonI started painting seriously again over 3 years ago. Since then my life has completely transformed for the better! I have met an amazing community of artists in Manchester who are incredibly supportive of one another. There are lots of arts oranisations such as Cotton on Manchester who are really inspiring and hold wonderful events and exhibitions to support local artist. My studio is amazing its in an old Victorian school with over 85 artists. The support I have had from the Manchester art scene has made me confident enough to give up my teaching job which I had for 18 years and become a full time artist!
Rachael Addis PaintsEveryone’s an artist here, I’m lucky enough to work part time in a gallery and feel constantly inspired everyday by the people of Manchester.
Cate BlanchardManchester is a vibrant, cultural and constantly changing city with lots of different artist communities. It is not difficult to be inspired by the ever changing urban landscape which is full of fabulous graffiti, layers of texture, lively and friendly people, and loads of theatres, cinema's, music venues and galleries so always somewhere to go.....
Paulette BansalManchester has such a vibe. It's cool, unique and cultured. It has an iconic vibrant style, variety and fantastic atmosphere which just lends itself to inspiration and creativity. The City is filled with amazing architecture, both modern and beautifully historic, amazing art galleries and The Northern Quarter for it's fantastic street art. These all provide great inspiration for my artwork. The people here are amazing too, with their immense pride for their City. They're friendly, welcoming and incredibly hard working. There is a great spirit and togetherness, people genuinely look after each other. It's a great City and I love living here.
Jo SandfordApart from living in York during my university years, I have lived in and around Manchester all my life. I’ve seen it grow and transform into the culturally rich, diverse, vibrant, exciting city it is today and I continue to love it.
Suzanne BethellThe hustle and bustle. People moving around interacting with their environment. Cafés, bars, museums and galleries. I love just being surrounded by life in action, it recharges my creative batteries.
DoodlherThe diversity of buildings, cultures and people which surround us all.
Ashley CundallI’ve lived in Manchester for over 16 years and it was the busy buzz and distinct indie identity that first drew me to the city. I still love how there is something for everyone and how it constantly is evolving and reinventing itself, whilst remaining uniquely Mancunian. The city’s a great hub but it’s also so close to some spectacular landscapes, such as the Peak District, Cheshire plains and Pennines. So when the buzz of the city becomes a bit too much, within an hour you can find yourself in beautiful, breathtaking countryside.
Amy Davies
