From the North

As a University deeply rooted in the North of England, and with our own vibrant School of Arts and Media, it is important that our collection reflects the wealth of artistic practice in our region, Artists living and working in the North, particularly the North West, have been a collecting priority since the collection began in the late 1960’s, and this continues today in our From the North Strand.

Known as the ‘city of making’ – a reputation built on the numerous mills and factories of the Industrial Revolution – Salford hosts a number of artists studios and independent projects. Amongst others, we work closely with Paradise Works, Islington Mill, Hot Bed Press studios, as well as previous partnerships with The International 3 Gallery and Artwork Atelier.  We also collaborate regularly with Salford Museum & Art Gallery on new commissions, events and exhibitions. From further around the North West, we also have important partnerships with Castlefield Gallery and Open Eye Gallery, focussing on artist development and new commissioning.

Many of the established artists in the region have a relationship to the University – through studying or teaching here at some point. We work closely with the School to continue supporting the next generation of artists – including through our Graduate Scholarship scheme.

Artists include:
Ruth Barker, Joey Collins, Craig Easton, Maurice Carlin, Pat Flynn, Louise Giovanelli, Rachel Goodyear, Kip Gresham, Sarah Hardacre, Adrian Henri, Gwilym Hughes, Walter Kershaw, Lizzie King and Craig Tattersall, L.S Lowry, Darren Nixon, Harold Riley, Adam Heiss and Martene Rourke, Liam Spencer and Meg Woods.