Axis is 35

Axis turns 35 this year. This isn’t about looking back, it’s about reaffirming our commitment to artists.

Because it’s not easy being an artist. Time is limited, income is uncertain, and support is uneven. Too often, support is shaped by systems that don’t start with what you need.

We do something different. We’re independent, led by artists, and funded by our members, not the Arts Council. That means we put resources directly into artists and their work.

So this year, we’re taking action. In 2026, we’ll put more than £70,000 directly into artists’ hands, not as a one off, but as part of how we work.

Here’s what that looks like.

We’re launching £35,000 for 35 artists, our biggest ever awards scheme, offering £1,000 each to support your practice, whether that’s time, research, materials or equipment. Alongside this, three Fellowships offer £4,000 each with tailored development support, and bursaries continue across the year through a simple, accessible process.

Applications open in June. Open to Axis members.

Our member-only monthly mentoring brings artists, curators and the Axis team together for honest advice and support. There are also more opportunities to share your work through features, curated projects and publications.

This sits within a bigger year. You’ll see key programmes return, including Back to School and Mental Health for Artists, alongside new work, a new publication, new ways of sharing and supporting artists’ work, and moments to come together in person.

We’re building something collective, where artists support artists, and where membership turns into real, visible support.

Membership makes all of this possible. It funds opportunities, connects you to a national network, and supports your day to day practice, including public liability insurance, now up to £15 million.

If you want to be part of it, to apply, take part, or support other artists, join us.

Axis. We support artists.