OVADA: Oxfordshire Visual Arts Development Agency

About OVADA

Established in 2004, OVADA is the Visual Arts Development Agency for the City of Oxford and the County of Oxfordshire. It is an umbrella organisation delivering services directly and in partnership with others. In 2005, the organisation undertook the renovation and expansion of the X-Change Gallery in Gloucester Green and re-launched the dedicated visual arts space as OVADA Gallery. After five years of successful exhibitions and events, OVADA vacated the Gallery in summer 2010 to allow for the re-development of the Old Fire Station complex. Throughout 2012, OVADA will continue to work with its stakeholders to present an exciting programme of off-site projects across Oxfordshire.

OVADA strives to develop high quality visual arts in the South East region by providing a diverse and interdisciplinary programme of inclusive exhibitions, events and related education programmes that will develop new audiences. OVADA delivers this work by creating new opportunities for artists through exhibitions, commissions, residencies and off-site projects. By providing a stimulating environment, both emerging and established artists are encouraged to take risks in their work and are supported in their continuing professional development through our programme of advice sessions, networking and information sharing. OVADA aims to present Oxfordshire artists within the context of contemporary practice, alongside national and international artists, helping to form productive collaborations. We will also support emerging visual arts professionals by providing a training ground of Internships, Work Experience and a Volunteer Programme. OVADA offers an extensive and constantly updated website and mailing campaign that provides members with up-to-date and relevant opportunities.

OVADA Staff

Lucy Phillips - Arts Coordinator

Lucy was recently appointed as Arts Coordinator, after joining OVADA as Gallery Manager in January 2009. Lucy gained a First Class Honours Fine Art Degree at Oxford Brookes University and continues to practice as an artist alongside her role at OVADA.

OVADA is a not-for-profit Company with a voluntary Board of Directors:

Roger Perkins - Chair

Jan Crombie - Vice Chair

Linda Oliver - Treasurer

Adrian Arbib

Toni Le Busque

Polly Nuttgens

Adrian Pawley

Karrine Powell

Hugh Pryor

Emma Titcombe

Hannah Wilmshurst