The South West’s visual arts network

Since 2012, Visual Arts South West (VASW) has brought together artists, arts workers and organisations across the region — supporting connection, collaboration and a stronger future for visual arts in the South West. 

Launching in November 2026, our new website and membership model are designed to make it easier to be visible, build connections and access opportunities across the South West 

We are delighted to welcome you to join the professional network for visual arts in the South West.

A stronger, more sustainable network

This new model has grown out of more than a decade of listening, research, partnerships and sector support work across the South West. Through the recurring VASW Artist and Arts Worker Survey; ambitious partnership initiatives like the West of England Visual Arts Alliance; and programmes such as Together We Will, and How Can I Stay?, we’ve heard consistently from artists and arts workers about the need for stronger connections, greater visibility and more sustainable ways to work. 

In response, we are focusing on what the sector has consistently called for: stronger connections, greater visibility, and more sustainable support.

Introducing paid membership will help VASW sustain and grow the network long-term, supporting advocacy, improving the platform, increasing access and opportunity, and continuing to respond to the changing needs of the sector. 

A platform for visibility and connection

VASW’s enhanced platform brings together exhibitions, events, opportunities and sector resources in one accessible, easy-to-use place. 

New features include an Art Workers Directory, connecting freelance arts professionals with organisations, collaborators and employers, and a What's On map, making it easier to discover activity across the South West. 

Whether you’re looking for work, collaborators, expertise or new audiences, the platform is designed to help the region's visual arts community connect, grow and thrive. 

Art Workers Membership
Create a profile in VASW's new Art Worker Directory to showcase your skills, experience and services. Designed for arts professionals, including curators, producers, technicians, fabricators, writers and project specialists, the directory helps members raise their profile, make new connections and access employment opportunities across the region. Free membership is available to individuals who may otherwise face barriers to joining.

Organisation Membership
Organisations, Networks and Collectives receive an enhanced profile in our Organisation Directory, unlimited listings for exhibitions, events and opportunities, and promotion through VASW's social channels and e-campaigns. Membership helps organisations increase visibility, reach new audiences, recruit talent and connect with the wider visual arts sector. Membership is tiered according to organisation size; free membership is available to those operating without funding. 

Individual Membership
Share exhibitions and events, post opportunities, and connect with the wider VASW network. Free and accessible membership for individuals ensures our network stays open and inclusive. 

For everyone
Everyone can browse the directory, discover events and opportunities, and access resources, editorial and research.

Open and accessible
Keeping the network open and accessible remains central to our approach.

Free and tiered membership options will continue to be available, helping reduce financial barriers and ensuring the network remains inclusive and representative of the sector.

We’re building a more connected and visible visual arts network for the South West — shaped by artists, arts workers and organisations across the region.

Be part of it.

Art Workers
Create your profile, share your skills and experience, and get hired.
Join as an Art Worker

Organisations and collectives
Share opportunities, promote your work, and connect with audiences and the visual arts community across the region.
Join as an Organisation

Free membership for artists and individuals
Accessible membership remains available to ensure the network stays open and inclusive.
Find out more

Together, we are building the professional network for visual arts in the South West.

Why is VASW introducing a paid membership?
VASW is introducing a paid membership model to support the long-term sustainability of the network and the visual arts sector in the South West.

This model builds on our existing membership offer, expanding it to better support visibility, connection and opportunity across the region.

Membership is an investment in a shared platform, enabling us to maintain and develop the website, expand our services, and continue our work in advocacy, research and sector support.

Will there still be free access?
Yes. VASW remains committed to accessibility and inclusion. The platform remains free to access, with tiered membership options available for both individuals and organisations. Free membership options are also available to those who need them, helping to ensure the network remains open and accessible to all. 

Who is membership for?
Membership is open to all who work across the South West visual arts sector, including artists, arts organisations, curators, producers, freelancers, collectives, and more. 

Learn more about our membership options.

How does this support the region?
Membership directly supports the development of a stronger regional infrastructure, helping to connect people, increase visibility for work, and advocate for investment in the South West visual arts sector.

It also marks an exciting step forward in strengthening the South West’s voice, supporting our work with CVAN. VASW contributes regional insight, advocacy and sector expertise to national campaigning that champions the value of visual arts.

What’s new on the website?

• An improved platform for listing opportunities, exhibitions and events across the South West 
• A map to help you discover what's on
• The Art Worker Directory
• The ability to find networks, studios, fabrication facilities, sector resources and research
• Improved accessibility and usability throughout the site