About Us
Dorset Visual Arts is a not-for-profit organisation and registered charity (1113249), established in 2006. We have a membership of over 300 artists, designers and makers who live and, or work in Dorset. Some of our members have national and international reputations.
We recognise that artists and makers have different interests and needs in developing their work and careers, yet are so often left to find their way in isolation, particularly in a mainly rural county. We are here to support visual artists at all stages of their career.
OUR AIMS:
- Promote excellence in Fine Art, Contemporary Art and Making through interaction and collaboration with other Dorset Cultural organisations
- Provide a range of opportunities and support to DVA Members for creative development and business skills
- Curate high-quality, inspiring and stimulating experiences for a diverse Visual Arts audience in Dorset
- To support new and emerging artists as well as established artists
We currently run three project groups focused on professional development; The Emerging Artist, Interrogating Project and Salon Group. DVA is also the lead arts organiser at The Sherborne - a brand new centre for the arts based in Sherborne. We are involved in developing an ambitious programme of exhibitions, community activity and visual arts-based events.
DVA is well known for its biennial, flagship event, Dorset Art Weeks, one of the oldest Open Studios Events in the country since 1992. DVA organises Dorset Art Weeks as a visual arts event open to all artists, makers and designers practising in Dorset. You do not have to be a DVA member to participate in this event. The next Dorset Art Weeks will run 23 May - 7 June 2026.
2025 will see DVA launch an exciting new visual arts event, DVAtions.
Join DVA today for exclusive opportunities and stay up to date
Dorset Visual Arts is grateful for Organisation Support Revenue Funding from Dorset Council
Dorset Visual Arts have declared a Climate and Ecological Emergency with Culture Declares