Bold contemporary art. Extraordinary artists.
Working with learning disabled and neurodivergent artists to develop ambitious creative practices for over 30 years.
Over 30 years of ambitious creativity.
For more than 30 years, Venture Arts has worked alongside learning disabled and neurodivergent artists to develop ambitious creative practices, exhibit their work and build careers in the arts.
From our Manchester studio, artists create work that challenges expectations, sparks conversations and reaches audiences across the UK and beyond.
This month we’re celebrating the work of studio artist Justin Lees.
Justin is an illustrator with a distinctive drawing style, often placing himself at the centre of his stories and illustrations. A keen animation fan, he takes particular inspiration from Pixar and Aardman, bringing character, humour and storytelling into his work.
This month also marks the fifth anniversary of Justin’s podcast, where he talks about his artwork, exhibitions he’s visited, his life and creative practice.
Justin’s work is currently being exhibited as part of the Manchester Open 2026 at HOME until 6 September.
Events & Exhibitions
Manchester Open is a major showcase of regional talent at HOME Manchester. Bringing together over 400 artworks, 11 Venture Arts artists have been selected for this year’s exhibition.
Manchester Open is a major showcase of regional talent at HOME Manchester. Bringing together over 400 artworks, 11 Venture Arts artists have been selected for this year’s exhibition.
Manchester Open is a major showcase of regional talent at HOME Manchester. Bringing together over 400 artworks, 11 Venture Arts artists have been selected for this year’s exhibition.
Armaghan Butt presents new work inspired by Manchester's modernist architecture and the rhythms of everyday life at The Modernist this August.
Armaghan Butt presents new work inspired by Manchester's modernist architecture and the rhythms of everyday life at The Modernist this August.
Armaghan Butt presents new work inspired by Manchester's modernist architecture and the rhythms of everyday life at The Modernist this August.
Help power the next 30 years of bold, boundary-pushing creativity.
Every donation helps learning disabled and neurodivergent artists access studio space, materials, mentoring and opportunities to develop their practice.
Your support helps artists experiment, exhibit their work and reach new audiences in Manchester and beyond.
To donate £3, text VA2025 to 70331
To donate £5, text VA2025 to 70970
To donate £10, text VA2025 to 70191
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