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This page provides a general overview of the visual arts sector, and highlights some of the organisations that promote and support the sector you operate in. Use them with our Support Directory to find funding, networks, information and opportunities that will help you develop your visual arts practice, gallery or space.
Visual artists seek to showcase their work and gain commissions through commercial galleries with many pursuing opportunities through public galleries and artist run spaces, initiatives and projects. Art fairs, open studios and group exhibitions are also opportunities for visual artists to find an audience, sell work, and find repeat clients and commissions. Similar to crafts and dance professionals, visual artists also sell their skills through education, teaching and community engaged practice.
Scotland has a world renowned reputation for the visual arts. From historic institutions such as The Glasgow School of Art (GSA) to contemporary showcases Edinburgh Art Festival and Glasgow International (GI) biennial, its presence at Venice Biennale and Scottish based artists dominating the annual Turner Prize. Supported by Creative Scotland there is a strong infrastructure of networks, open access workshops, galleries, studio providers such as Wasps and artist-led initiatives.
Scottish Contemporary Arts Network (SCAN) is a member led network committed to championing and supporting the contemporary art sector in Scotland. The Resources section of their website contains reports on industry issues from principles of the arts in Scotland to discussions and consultation reports. Its directory lists artists and organisations working in visual arts in Scotland and linked events create networking opportunities for members.
Scottish Artists Union (SAU) advocates and lobbies on behalf of visual and applied artists in Scotland. It produces an annual survey of its members detailing common working circumstances, income streams and rates of pay. A notable benefit of their affordable annual membership is the free public liability insurance.
a-n The Artists Information Company supports contemporary visual arts practice and campaigns for issues that impact on artists’ practice. It campaigns for artistic, legislative and economic measures that enhance artists’ working lives and professional status, with AIR Council leading and advising on this work.
Axisweb is a membership network that allows artists and crafts people to showcase their work online. Its website also includes features news and opportunities for artists.
Artquest shares resources and opportunities to help you develop your visual arts practice. Its website is a rich resource of ‘how to’ guides for every aspect of artistic practice including legal advice and information on the global arts scene.
The British Council's Visual Arts programme promotes UK artists abroad. Its website includes useful information like a map of British Council exhibitions taking place across the world and a library of resources. It also points to funding streams.
Own Art is a finance scheme that makes buying and selling art more affordable. Galleries who qualify to offer the scheme can offer buyers purchase in an easy and affordable way by spreading costs. For artists, Art Intelligence is a news and social media hub providing trade news from the contemporary art world and Own Art’s partner galleries. Its directory of partner galleries is also a quick and easy way to find places to exhibit your work.
These networks are a good place to connect:
You can showcase your work and meet visual and applied artists in your area through regional open studio networks:
