Established in 1984, Collective has long supported new work by artists who are at a pivotal stage in their development. In November 2018, Collective opened its new home on Calton Hill, featuring the restored City Observatory, City Dome, and a purpose-built exhibition space. Their programme of exhibitions, walks, and events presents contemporary art in all its diversity. They provide artists with the opportunity to make new work and audiences the chance to see it here first. By inspiring, engaging with, and learning from the people and groups around, Collective aims to contribute to local, national, and international conversations.

Satellites Programme

Satellites Programme is the accelerated development programme which sits at the core of Collective. Through it, Collective aims to prepare the next generation of creative practitioners, supporting them to develop the confidence and critical skills they need to thrive. Satellites Programme is more than an exhibition opportunity. Participants have described it as a pivotal experience, due to the level of support received from Collective and the chance to develop through discursive engagement with a group of peers.

It is encouraged that applications to Satellites are from across the spectrum of contemporary art and creative practice in Scotland including, but not limited to: studio-based material (paint, sculpture, paper, etc), photography, moving image, research, collaboration, curatorial, production, social engagement, activism, performance, writing, and critical enquiry.