The Arts Society seeks to advance an appreciation and study of every aspect of the arts and to preserve our artistic heritage for the benefit of all.  We are a UK-based charity with over 80,000 members supporting a network of 376 local societies worldwide.

There are 21 Societies in the North-East Area from Northumberland and Tyneside, through County Durham and Yorkshire – North, South, East and West! – and into Derbyshire.

Our societies bring together groups of like-minded people through their individual programmes of monthly lectures and study days given by carefully selected accredited lecturers, visits, tours, and a range of volunteering activities.  Society and supporter members can become involved in worthwhile conservation volunteering projects in churches, museums, castles, historic houses and more.  Our Heritage Volunteers, Arts Volunteers and Trails of Discovery Volunteers offer invaluable help to many public and private institutions, enhancing and encouraging the appreciation and understanding of art and our artistic and cultural heritage.

You are warmly invited to become a member and discover a stimulating and enjoyable way to expand your knowledge of the arts, make new friendships, and have fun!  If you would like to contact a society with a view to becoming a member, just click on a name on the list here to find their website. 

Working alongside individual societies, the Area Support Team aims to enhance your enjoyment of The Arts Society as an existing or potential member and offers support to local Societies.  Area activities include:

• .  Regular meetings for representatives of local societies, providing an opportunity to hear about the latest developments within The Arts Society, meet fellow committee members from around the area and provide a forum for societies to exchange ideas and concerns.
• .  Arranging training days, workshops for volunteering activities and discussion forums.
• .  Organising events for members such as Study Days, Visits and Tours.
• .  Promoting The Arts Society through participation in important regional events.
• .  Liaising with The Arts Society at a national level.