We feature the amazing creative organisations in the North West. This time it's
@theoldcourts Wigan.
The Old Courts Wigan is a not‑for‑profit, multi‑arts centre that plays a significant role in the region’s visual arts ecology. Housed in a former courthouse, it offers gallery spaces, artist studios, residencies, and regular exhibitions, creating an active hub for contemporary visual practice. As part of the Wigan Arts and Heritage Trust, it reinvests all profits into cultural projects, strengthening its commitment to accessibility and community impact.
The Old Courts hosts open calls, supports emerging and mid‑career artists, and integrates visual art into a wider programme of music, theatre, poetry, and community events. Its involvement in initiatives like the Wigan Arts Festival further amplifies opportunities for artists to exhibit, collaborate, and engage diverse audiences across the town.
Held at Pier 4, Wigan Pier, the Wigan Open Exhibition marked a welcome return after a hiatus, as part of Wigan Arts Festival. Previously hosted at The Old Courts, the exhibition moved venue while repair works are carried out on two of its spaces, due for completion later this year. The open call welcomed artists working across all mediums.
After a successful pilot scheme that ran from July – December 2025, The Old Courts and TERM Art Classes partnered up again to deliver a 2nd ROOM residency scheme. The new cohort of 4 artists were given free studio space at The Old Courts for 5 weeks. They were free to use the spaces to develop their practice, plus opportunities to exhibit and develop through funding talks, artist crits and skill shares.
Photo Credits:
- Funding Talk ROOM. Credit: TERM Art Classes
- Wigan Open Exhibition. Credit: Bryan Fowler
- ROOM Skill Share. Credit: TERM Art Classes
- Artist Mixer with ROOM artists and Amy Hailwood
