As a town, we can be rightfully proud of our cultural offering. I believe we punch well above our weight and there can be no argument about the positive outcomes for our residents and visitors when it comes to the wide range of illuminating and thought-provoking events and activities available here in Cheltenham.

The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum is currently hosting an exciting exhibition in partnership with London’s Hayward Gallery (itself within the world-famous Southbank Centre), entitled Material Worlds. It explores the use of textiles in art and the unique ways that materials can transform a subject.

Running until January 2026, this fascinating exhibition transforms familiar fabrics into sometimes humorous, sometimes bold, but always thought-provoking pieces of art from fifteen UK-based artists. Just like the other events at The Wilson, enjoying Material Worlds is completely free!

Prioritising families and young people

It is really important that people feel that culture is accessible and I am proud of The Wilson for prioritising families and young people in our communities over the last year, offering vital support through a wide range of activities.

Their free artist-designed play resource ran for a third year in a row, welcoming over 12,000 children and families throughout the summer holidays, while engagement and participation in art exhibitions, like Material Worlds, continues to grow to more than 60,000 last year.

The Wilson’s café is being transformed into a free creative play space too, where children can learn about history and creativity through play. The Cheltenham Trust also subsidises the café to make affordable meals for young people, particularly throughout the school holidays, which we know is so important.

I am thrilled that engagement in the arts and cultural events are resonating with Cheltenham and that accessibility is at the heart of what we do to make sure that inquisitive minds will always have a home in our town.