Pound Arts Retains Its Place as an Arts Council National Portfolio Organisation

Pound Arts is delighted to announce that it has secured funding from the Arts Council and has retained its place as a National Portfolio Organisation for the period 2018 -2022.

The Pound Arts Trust Ltd is a Charity based in Corsham that runs The Pound  arts centre (which promotes three annual seasons of professional live performances, film, participatory arts events and exhibition) as well as two annual festivals celebrating the arts (Blue Sky Festival in June and Magic & Mayhem in November), Rural Arts Touring schemes in Wiltshire and Gloucestershire (bringing professional performances to rural areas), and an extensive education and outreach programme in Corsham and across Wiltshire. The funding from the Arts Council will enable Pound Arts to continue to carry out its ambitious programme of work over the next four years along with sustaining its position as an arts hub for the local community and North Wiltshire.

Russ Tunney, Director of Pound Arts, says:

“I’m thrilled for all of our customers, staff, artists, funders and volunteers. The Arts Council have recognised our excellent work and the investment will ensure that our gorgeous and quirky organisation will continue to punch well above its weight. We will carry on bringing the best possible art to our community and I relish the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

Over the four years of the deal Pound Arts will receive £301,704 which represents 18% of its income. The remainder is made up of other funding agreements, earned income from Box Office and a required £30,000 a year from sponsorship and donations.  The Arts Council have prioritised a rebalance of funding from London  to the regions in a bid to support a varied and diverse portfolio and to invest in new and emerging talent and projects that will inevitably benefit arts organisations within London through the development of new artists, performers and work. The Arts Council’s overall goal via the National Portfolio is to support the arts and culture sector to produce ‘high quality activity that is relevant to the world we live in.’

There are a number of ways you can find out more about Pound Arts and what’s on at The Pound by dropping in to The Pound Monday to Saturday from 10am; pick up a brochure, relax in their Café Bar and view their free exhibition. You can give the friendly and helpful team a ring on 01249 701628 or visit their website www.poundarts.org.uk