The University of Salford Art Collection is delighted to partner with RHS Garden Bridgewater for a new programme of artist residencies in 2025-2026.
The project launches with multi-award winning artist Dr Yan Wang Preston undertaking the first residency of its kind at the garden, making new work in response to the history, geology and ecology of the site.
“We’re delighted to be working with RHS Bridgewater, which is such a beautiful asset right on our doorstep. I’ve been aware of Yan’s amazing work and her focus on the natural world for some time, and have been waiting for the right opportunity to work with her – we’re very excited.” – Lindsay Taylor, Director of the University’s Art Collection.
In Spring 2025, the Collection was also awarded Arts Council England funding to develop a three socially-engaged artist residencies with the RHS and local communities.
Find out more below, and look out for announcements of forthcoming events, exhibitions and opportunities. You can also join our quarterly newsletter here for updates.
June 2025: Join us for project launch: Memory Keepers
Join us on the Summer Solstice, 21st June 2025, 11am-1pm, for a special ‘in conversation’ event with artist Yan Wang Preston and arborist (tree specialist!) Josh Corbett. Find out more about the new Memory Keepers collaborative project! Read more here.
March 2025: New Arts Council England funding
We are excited to announce three new socially-engaged artist residencies, supported by Arts Council England. Find out more here
November 2024: Meet the Artist
Meet our new artist in a video with RHS Garden Bridgewater. (Watch time: 4m30; subtitled).
Watch now on Youtube
November 2024: Residency announcement
Dr Yan Wang Preston is announced as the first artist-in-residence at RHS Garden Bridgewater. Read more here!