Tantalus was conceived in 1999 by a group of artists working in and around Rugby, Warwickshire, to address the lack of available space for workshops, studios or exhibitions in the locality.

Tantalus is an artists’ co-operative, an association which caters in a non-judgmental way for projects and exhibitions involving a range of media, including collaborations between artists and media.

Since 1999 Tantalus has built up a strong base of members who produce at least three exhibitions a year, locally and regionally, some to great critical acclaim. Members have been featured on BBC and ITV regional programmes, and have good relations with all local press, who report on all the shows presented.

In 2003, the Earl and Countess of Denbigh became patrons of the group, and gave exclusive access to their grounds and summerhouse as an artist retreat, set in a Capability Brown landscape. This is a partnership that is still flourishing.

The exhibitions continue to maintain their strength and individuality, sometimes causing debate and controversy between the group and the public.