Oldham wildlife artist named Town of Culture Ambassador

An Oldham wildlife artist has been named a Greater Manchester Town of Culture Cultural Ambassador as her exhibition continues at Gallery Oldham.

Anne Bardsley has been appointed a Greater Manchester Town of Culture 2026/27 Cultural Ambassador, after being nominated by Gallery Oldham as part of the Rising Up Greater Manchester Town of Culture programme.

The appointment comes as Anne’s solo exhibition, Wild Lives, continues in Gallery One at Gallery Oldham.

The exhibition features colourful acrylic, oil and mixed-media paintings inspired by Anne’s encounters with animals at conservation-focused zoos and wildlife parks across the UK.

Rather than simply painting animals as they look, Anne focuses on their personalities and individual characteristics, capturing everything from curious expressions and playful moments to cheeky behaviour.

Many of the animals featured are endangered species, giving the exhibition a conservation message alongside the humour and character of Anne’s work.

Speaking about her new role, Anne said: “Being named a Greater Manchester Town of Culture Cultural Ambassador is a real honour, especially during such an exciting year for Oldham.

“I love being part of this creative community and supporting other artists, and I’m looking forward to celebrating the people and organisations that make Oldham such a welcoming and inspiring place.”

Anne is already heavily involved in Oldham’s creative scene. She is Vice Chair of the Friends of Gallery Oldham and lead organiser of the GO! Artists Oldham Art Fair, which gives local artists a platform to sell their work.

Alongside her art, she also volunteers with her partner to run Board About Town at Royton Library, a community board-game group aimed at bringing people together and encouraging people to discover a new hobby.

As a Cultural Ambassador, Anne will help celebrate Oldham’s year as Greater Manchester’s Town of Culture, highlighting the borough’s artists, communities and cultural activity.

Wild Lives opened at Gallery Oldham on September 5 and continues in Gallery One until November 7, 2026. Admission is free.

Anne will also be at the gallery for a couple of hours every Tuesday during the exhibition.