Kate Enters Is Empowering Artists Through ArtCan — A Community Where Creativity Thrives Without Commissions

When Kate Enters set out to carve space for her own artistic voice, she didn’t expect to spark a global movement. What began as a quiet rebellion against the gatekeeping norms of the art world turned into ArtCan — a nonprofit where artists keep 100% of their earnings and 100% of their dignity. Built on the belief that creativity shouldn't come with a commission fee, ArtCan is more than an organisation. It's a collective heartbeat for artists who’ve long worked in isolation.

Creating a Platform, Not Just a Gallery

Kate never intended to start a movement — she simply wanted artists to have a fair shot. Having navigated the frustrations of trying to build a sustainable art career without equitable support, she recognised a deeper need: a space rooted in inclusion, collaboration, and empowerment.

“Practicing art can be a lonely experience,” says Kate.“I wanted to create an environment that felt inclusive, empowering, and collaborative.”

That idea became ArtCan — a London-based, artist-led nonprofit that eliminates one of the biggest burdens on emerging creators: gallery commissions. While traditional galleries often take 30–50% of an artist’s sales, ArtCan lets creators keep 100% of what they earn, reframing the power dynamic entirely.

But ArtCan is not just about economic justice. It's about visibility, connection, and collective uplift. Artists gain access to exhibitions, mentorship, international opportunities, and a nurturing network that builds both artistic skill and confidence.

Building a Global, Volunteer-Led Creative Ecosystem

Unlike commercial platforms, ArtCan thrives on community and contribution. With no major institutional funding, it has scaled through volunteer support, artist advocacy, and strategic partnerships — growing from a UK grassroots initiative to a global art collective.

ArtCan has hosted exhibitions in Berlin, New York, Athens, and London, showcasing work from emerging artists who might otherwise be overlooked. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it seamlessly shifted to virtual shows, ensuring artists remained seen, supported, and inspired.

One of its standout moments came in 2022 with “ARTIVISM IN | SIGHT,” a bold international exhibit of 16 sculptors using art to engage with pressing social issues. This aligned perfectly with ArtCan’s ethos: art as a force for social change — accessible, relevant, and unapologetically human.

“We might not have a large budget,” Kate notes,“but we’ve always had big belief — in our artists and in our purpose.”

Challenges Along the Way

Running a volunteer-led organisation without steady funding has come with its own set of trials. Every new exhibition or artist onboarding requires resourcefulness, planning, and tireless commitment. In 2023, ArtCan introduced a modest membership fee — a necessary step to sustain the mission without compromising its core values.

“Funding is always a challenge,” Kate admits,“but it has also pushed us to be creative, to listen to our artists, and to stay focused on the values we started with.”

Despite these hurdles, ArtCan has expanded without diluting its philosophy — a rare feat in an industry often driven by commercial viability over creative integrity.

Advice for Aspiring Women Entrepreneurs: Purpose Over Perfection

Kate’s journey is an inspiring blueprint for anyone — especially women — striving to create heart-led ventures in an often transactional world. Her advice is deeply rooted in lived experience:

“Don’t try to do everything alone,” she urges.“Surround yourself with people who believe in you — whether that’s family, friends, or mentors.”

She also encourages women to stop chasing blueprints and start crafting their own:

“You don’t need to follow someone else’s model. Build something that aligns with your values, and be willing to adapt when the path changes.”

The Final Stroke: Reclaiming Power Through Art

Kate Enters didn’t just build an art organisation — she reimagined the system. Through ArtCan, she’s given artists the freedom to grow, speak, and sell on their own terms. No commissions. No gatekeepers. Just community, creativity, and courage.

In a world that often commercialises creativity, ArtCan stands as a powerful counterpoint — proving that success doesn’t have to come at the cost of authenticity or access.

Because sometimes, the most powerful galleries aren’t built with bricks.They’re built with belief.

Website: www.artcan.org.uk

Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/company/artcanorg