March 2026

Over the past few years, the Arts Development Team has been steadily growing NL Artist Network: a supportive and ever growing‑ network of local creatives.

What began as a conversation to connect artists has now flourished into NL Artist Network, a dynamic community bringing together an incredible mix of local talent. Today, the network includes scriptwriters, photographers, face painters, visual artists, videographer, actors, writers, mindfulness facilitators, and many more practitioners who contribute to the creative landscape of our North Lanarkshire.

With 165 creatives now part of the network, it has become a place where local artists can connect, collaborate, share opportunities, and give back to the communities they live and work in. Whether it’s delivering workshops, supporting events, or developing new projects, the network is strengthening the role of creativity across North Lanarkshire.

Some feedback from Artist Network members who attended a recent event we ran called CoLab:

It was a superb and very informative session – thanks for really taking the time to listen and come up with some very helpful ideas on how we could make inroads on our projects. EL – network member

Thank you so much for the follow-up and for the helpful notes. It was great to discuss the potential for supporting recent graduates; that “gap” after college is something I’m very passionate about addressing. AD – network member

With additional support from Business Gateway to enable the Arts Development Team to offer an additional programme of events that support our network members from a business perspective. Together, we’re creating more opportunities for local artists learn, connect, and grow, strengthening our creative community and local economy.

“Business Gateway Lanarkshire is proud to have a strong and growing partnership with the North Lanarkshire Artist Network. We value the opportunity to contribute to the network by providing fully funded business advice to help local creatives start and develop sustainable businesses and go on to thrive in the region. We look forward to continuing to work together.”Jaz Gharra McBeth, Enterprise Development Officer, Business Gateway Lanarkshire

By working closely with local creatives, we’re helping to build community identity, grow local skills, and ensure that North Lanarkshire’s creativity continues to thrive!

If you are a local creative living or working in North Lanarkshire, check out our Artist Network.

Laura McIver, Arts Development Officer (Creative Writing, Drama, Movement)