East Durham Artists' Network (edan)

East Durham Artists' Network (edan), is a collective of professional artists dedicated to the development of visual arts in the region. Members are either based in, or associated with, East Durham.

The group was constituted in 2005, and has over 60 committed members, from the Tyne to the Tees and beyond. edan is an artist-led initiative and members represent a cross section of the visual arts, including painters, glass artists, sculptors, textile artists, photographers and poets. edan makes art and artists more accessible to the public, acting as a voice for practising artists and providing information and support.

edan also fulfills a need for cultural and social interaction between artists and public, through exhibitions and community based projects. Through these themed projects edan members are provided with the opportunity to research their subject within a supportive environment, furthering their artistic and academic knowledge.

We contribute to the cultural development of the region, by successfully establishing links between artists, industry and commerce. We use empty shops, offices, local council and university premises, nature reserves and gardens for our projects and exhibitions. edan's talented artists have worked with scientists, theologians, educationalists and students.

As visual artists we have discovered that if we want our work to be seen, we must create our own audiences.