Grant funding comes from two main sources: public funders (such as local councils or Arts Council England) and private funders (charities or ‘trusts and foundations’).

Grant funding is traditionally the best-known type of funding for artists. Consequently, it is a highly competitive field with many more people applying for grants than can be supported.

The question of what makes an artist 'professional' is often debated. While professionalism in relation to arts practice is a lot to do with attitude and approach, there are certain basic resources you can develop to operate in a professional manner and help you develop your career.

Artquest does not carry information on funding sources for Higher Education - BA, MA or PhD courses. . . .

This section lists specialist print and design services.

Each application you write, whether for funding, sponsorship, an exhibition or residency, will have some things in common.

Its vital for practitioners to have high quality documentation of their work and exhibitions, whatever form they take.

The vast majority of trusts will only give to organisations, companies or other trusts.  A short listing of trusts that give to individuals are listed in the Funding section.

Having an accurate, up-to-date, relevant CV is vitally important for visual artists and craftspeople, especially when applying for residencies, workshops, commissions or other opportunities.

If you need help installing an exhibition, or if you need to hire equipment for your show, you can find a list of useful companies and services in this section.