My Journey with Gallery Oldham: From Volunteering to Exhibiting Solar Maximum

Gallery Oldham has been an integral part of my artistic development, and I am incredibly excited to share that I’ll soon have the opportunity to exhibit my work, Solar Maximum, at the gallery! My connection with Gallery Oldham started in 2018 when I began volunteering as part of the GO Collective. Although the collective eventually came to an end, the gallery and its staff took me under their wing, offering me invaluable support and guidance. Over the years, I’ve learned so much about curating exhibitions, working with artists, and most importantly, the importance of community engagement within the art world.

A Space for Learning and Community Integration

Gallery Oldham is a contemporary art gallery in the heart of Oldham, known for its commitment to both the local community and international art. Since its opening in 2002, it has served as a dynamic space for art and culture, hosting a wide variety of exhibitions that showcase local and international talent. What makes Gallery Oldham unique is its focus on making art accessible and fostering a connection between art and the community.

During my time with the GO Collective, I learned first-hand how the gallery integrates art into the community. I gained valuable insight into the curatorial process, helping to plan exhibitions and engage with the local audience. The gallery’s commitment to fostering creativity and building relationships within the community is one of the things that drew me to it in the first place, and it’s what has kept me involved over the years.

One of the highlights of my experience with Gallery Oldham was assisting with The National Gallery’s Masterpiece Tour, featuring Helené Rouart’s In Her Father’s Study, E. Degas (1886). Although the program was delayed due to COVID, I had the opportunity to delve into art history and curating, which became a key part of my dissertation on the representation of women in portraiture. This experience further solidified my passion for curating and deepened my connection to the gallery.

A Milestone: Solar Maximum at Gallery 4

Now, I’m thrilled to announce that I will soon be exhibiting my own work, Solar Maximum, at Gallery 4 (formerly known as the Community Gallery). This is a huge milestone in my career, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity. Throughout the process—from submitting my proposal to planning and displaying my work—the team at Gallery Oldham has been incredibly supportive. I am especially thankful to Dee and Nick for their guidance and encouragement every step of the way.

Gallery 4 has always been a space for community-based exhibitions, and I’m excited to share Solar Maximum there, especially given the gallery’s history of supporting emerging artists. The exhibition will allow me to showcase my work and connect with the local community in a meaningful way. It’s an exciting opportunity to continue developing as an artist and curator.

A Hub for Creativity and Growth

Gallery Oldham is more than just a gallery; it’s a place where creativity thrives and where artists are supported in their journey. The gallery's commitment to providing a platform for both established and emerging artists makes it an invaluable part of the Oldham arts scene. Whether through exhibitions, workshops, or community initiatives, Gallery Oldham is dedicated to making art accessible to everyone, fostering a space where both artists and the public can engage with creative work.

If you're an artist looking to showcase your work, I highly encourage you to submit an exhibition proposal to Gallery Oldham. The team there is incredibly supportive and will guide you through every step of the process, from initial submission to the display of your work. The gallery has provided me with incredible opportunities, and I’m excited to be part of it in such a meaningful way. I've provided the link below :)

Gallery Oldham has been a place of growth and learning for me, and I am so grateful for the chance to exhibit Solar Maximum there. It’s a space that values creativity, community, and the connections that art can foster. I look forward to seeing where my next steps take me and hope to inspire others to explore the incredible opportunities that Gallery Oldham has to offer.

https://hla.oldham.gov.uk/gallery/gallery-4/