Search begins for Tees Valley creative stars

A Tees Valley creative development programme is offering artists the chance to accelerate their careers through funding, mentoring and business support.

Applications have opened for Tees Valley Artist of the Year 2026, with up to five artists or artist collectives set to receive almost £30,000 in financial backing alongside a year-long package of professional development.

The initiative, now in its third year, is open to creatives who live or work across the Tees Valley and have an established body of original work and professional recognition.

The successful applicants will take part in a talent incubator programme running from October 2026 to September 2027, receiving investment equivalent to one year of the UK Real Living Wage, a professional development budget, tailored mentoring and support with fundraising, PR and business growth.

The programme aims to help artists reach new audiences, secure larger opportunities and develop sustainable creative careers.

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen said: “We know Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool are packed with talent, but too many artists have found it hard to access the links, help and opportunities that can take their work to the next level.

“By backing our Tees Valley Artists of the Year, we give them the time, space, support and success to turn ambition into real success and show just how powerful a voice we have.

“Our region’s star is rising in film and TV production, and we are home to pioneering digital firms – so it makes total sense to ensure our talent has the backing to make a splash on the national and international stage and go further to help our best have the help they need to thrive here at home.”

Since launching in 2024, the scheme has supported a range of artists to achieve national recognition. 

Current Artist of the Year Finn Forster has toured with Stereophonics, while 2024 recipient and author Lisette Auton was invited to Number 10 Downing Street following the publication of her latest book. 

Meanwhile, visual artist Will Hughes launched creative fabrication workshop Sawdust after taking part in the scheme.

Among the inaugural winners, folk singer Amelia Coburn featured on Paul Weller’s latest album, theatre maker Scott Turnbull took a successful production to the Edinburgh Fringe and will return this year, digital embroidery artist Beth Wilson won Small Business of the Year at the Tees Businesswomen Awards, and DJ Boo, pictured below, opened the Main Stage at BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend in Sunderland.

Tees Valley Artist of the Year forms part of the Tees Valley Combined Authority’s wider investment in the region’s creative and cultural industries, with successful applicants selected by a panel of cultural leaders, artists and representatives from the authority.

Full guidance and eligibility details are available online. To apply, click here.

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