Crowdfunding drive underway to establish an 'art space for all' at Bristol's RWA

Posted on: 07 Jun 2021

The gallery team have so far raised more than half of their £20,000 target.

 

The Royal West of England Academy (RWA) are campaigning to raise money to fund an 'art space for all', aiming to make their gallery premises more accessible for young people, school groups and people living with disabilities.

 

As part of an internal refurbishment project, the team are hoping to equip the gallery's basement space with up-to-date facilities, new creative courses and a new Community Room, allowing everyone to enjoy the art on show and get involved in the RWA programme.

 

Having gotten underway in May, the crowdfunding campaign has raised just over half of its £20,000 target, and will come to an end on Friday 18 June.

 

 

In a short appeal posted on the gallery's website, Director Alison Bevan explains that, for some, the RWA can feel imposing, meaning that parts of the community never get the opportunity to see and experience the art on offer.

 

As part of a series of new additions and updates to the gallery, the new accessible area will include a fully-equipped Changing Places toilet facility, new digital equipment and a private area for more vulnerable groups and visitors.

 

The RWA have also committed to offering a range of accessible creative workshops as part of the project, and will be hosting a diverse selection of artist-led classes, open to all.

 

"This space will offer the chance for adults, children, families and groups to explore, experiment and share their own art," Alison says. "It will be your space, to inspire your creativity, and to nurture your talents."

 

Exclusive artistic rewards inspired by the new project are available to those who have made donations, including an RWA tote bag designed by Dame Elisabeth Frink for pledges of £25, and spaces on a Print & Prosecco workshop for pledges of £60.

 

For more information on the RWA's crowdfunding campaign, to make a donation or to follow news and updates on the project, head to the RWA website or find the gallery on Twitter.

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