ArtsLinc - artist's supporting artist's in their creative endeavours

What is ArtsLinc Artists Network?

ArtsLinc is an artist-led network. It was started in June 2008 by Fiona Hodges, as a result of artists getting together for the first Isle Arts Showcase (September 2008).

Most of our current members are based in rural areas and can feel very isolated and find it difficult to find like-minded people with whom to develop ideas and projects. Consequently, they are in danger of failing to reach their artistic potential, as they struggle to make the essential contacts necessary to build their professional practices. Furthermore, there is little recognition of the wealth of artistic talent around. Individuals on their own may struggle to find outlets for their art to be seen by the wider public.

As a group we can benefit from pooling our resources, knowledge, contacts and enthusiasm to make things happen.

The network is still young and membership is growing, with more members joining each month. We run regular meetings, each member receives a regular electronic newsletter and we also aim to organise meetings and events over the year, such as exhibitions and attending crafts fairs. The committee members are Fiona Hodges, who is Chairman and Secretary, Joanna Blackburn, who is Treasurer, and Jackie Welton. We are looking for other committee members. In particular, we need an Events Co-ordinator and a Publicity Officer.

Network Area

The first group of members have come predominantly from rural areas of North Lincolnshire, North Nottinghamshire and South Yorkshire. We envisage that members will continue to join this and other neighbouring areas.

Aims of ArtsLinc Artists Network

ArtsLinc Artists Network’s main aims are to provide a forum to

hold regular meetings throughout the year for networking and professional development purposes.
facilitate access to advice and information to help to members to develop and promote their artistic practices
establish links to form artistic collaborations
raise the profile of artists from the area, e.g. through staging art events and exhibitions and through featuring each member's work on this website

The network is open to all practising artists and craftspeople (whether full-time or part-time).

We are a network without borders. Whilst we currently operate mainly within Northern Lincolnshire, we have members from South Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. We are all keen to expand the network's activity into neighbouring counties.

ArtsLinc Artists Network relies on the active involvement of its members to help with the development of projects that will provide opportunities for all members. The more help from members that is volunteered, the more events and projects we can become involved in. The Committee steers the management and development of the network, but relies heavily on members to give their time to organise and publicise events.