Sometimes, the most meaningful movements begin with a simple conversation!
In late 2023, three artists - Suraj Garg, Farina Noorani, and Bhavika Garg - found themselves in exactly that moment at Westbury Art Centre. What started as a casual chat quickly turned into something deeper: a shared realisation that while there was no shortage of talent within the South Asian creative community, there was no dedicated space that truly brought artists together under one roof.
There was a gap - not just in visibility, but in connection, collaboration, and belonging.
Over those conversations, an idea began to take shape. And by January 2024, that idea became reality.
South Asian Artists’ Community (SAAC) was born.
From day one, SAAC has been powered entirely by passion and people.
Our management committee - including our Chair, Treasurer, Secretary, and 2 Executive Members - are all practising artists who volunteer their time, energy, and expertise to nurture and grow this community. Behind the scenes, they are actively involved in everything that makes SAAC what it is today: building partnerships, networking, marketing, curating exhibitions, planning events, and even rolling up their sleeves to create DIY display boards for exhibitions.
This is not just a group - it’s a collective effort.
Today, SAAC is proud to have a growing network of 20 active members, each bringing their own unique voice, style, and story into the community.
In just a short time, SAAC has built strong and meaningful partnerships across the local arts and cultural landscape.
We have collaborated with Milton Keynes Islamic Arts and Culture for 'Art in the Park', worked alongside Kathakali Company on their Heritage Project in Milton Keynes, and contributed to cultural celebrations at Milton Keynes Museum. Our members have also showcased work through partnerships with Westbury Arts Centre and participated in the 'Gift of Stitch' exhibition at Cowper and Newton Museum, Olney. We are proud to be trusted Art workshop suppliers - including delivering creative workshops for Milton Keynes City Council and successfully securing a place at the Midsummer Festival 2025.
Creative Exhibition of the County at the Bucks Sparks Awards 2024 Creative Company of the Year at the MK Inspiration Awards 2025These milestones reflect the strength of our community and the growing impact of our collective voice.
As Chair, Suraj’s vision for SAAC is both ambitious and deeply community-rooted.
Establish SAAC as a recognised platform for South Asian artists across the UK Create regular exhibition opportunities and touring showcases Develop structured artist development programmes and mentorship pathways Build partnerships with galleries, cultural institutions, and corporate organisations Launch community art and well-being initiatives that make creativity more accessible Secure a dedicated creative hub - a space artists can truly call their own
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