VISION


MISSION

VALUES

Timon Benson Photography

WHAT WE’RE HERE FOR, WHAT WE BELIEVE IN, AND WHERE WE’RE GOING

Paradise Works is an artist-led contemporary visual arts organisation based in Salford, supporting over 40 artists through affordable studios, residencies, exhibitions and public programming. Since 2017, we have grown into a vital part of the North West’s cultural landscape, championing inclusive, experimental and socially engaged artistic practice.

OUR VISION

To establish Paradise Works as a vital, inclusive hub for artistic excellence in Greater Manchester, contributing to a sustainable and nationally recognised artist-led ecosystem.

OUR MISSION

We support artists at all stages of their careers through affordable studios, residencies, exhibitions and development opportunities, while championing underrepresented voices and fostering meaningful connections between artists, audiences and communities.

We are committed to embedding EQUALITY + SUSTAINABILITY + CARE across all areas of our work.

OUR VALUES

Paradise Works is artist-led at its core. These values shape how we work with artists, audiences, partners and communities.

COMMUNITY

We are an artist-led organisation, created by artists for artists. Through shared space, collective decision-making and mutual support, we foster a strong sense of belonging and enable our community to grow creatively and professionally.

DIVERSITY+INCLUSIVITY

We are committed to breaking down barriers within the arts, supporting artists from diverse socio-economic, cultural and geographic backgrounds, and actively championing underrepresented voices across all areas of our work.

COLLABORATION

Collaboration is central to our approach. We create opportunities for shared learning, cross-disciplinary exchange and meaningful partnerships across local, national and international contexts.

CARE

Care and wellbeing are embedded in our culture. We prioritise listening, support and sustainability, creating an environment where artists, staff and communities feel valued and empowered.

CREATIVITY + COMMUNITY + SOCIAL CHANGE

Paradise Works operates at the intersection of creativity, community and social change, providing a platform for contemporary visual artists to develop ambitious practices while engaging with diverse audiences.

KEY OBJECTIVES

Our key objectives focus on building a resilient, ambitious and inclusive future for Paradise Works and the artists and communities we support.

  • Strengthen long-term stability through core funding, including GMCA Culture Fund and Arts Council England NPO status, while diversifying income through partnerships, sponsorship and earned revenue.

  • Expand our programme of residencies, exhibitions and partnerships, while deepening engagement with local communities and supporting ambitious, socially engaged artistic practice.

  • Develop a robust governance model and increase organisational capacity by transitioning to sustainable staffing structures and expanding the team.

  • Work towards a longer-term lease or ownership to ensure stability, enable investment and support the future growth of the organisation.

  • Continue to prioritise inclusive practices across programming, partnerships and recruitment, ensuring representation and access remain central to our work.

ARTIST-LED SALFORD-BASED LOOKING FORWARD


These priorities form part of Paradise Works’ 2025–2030 organisational strategy.