Features / Bristol Charity Advent Calendar 2023
Bristol Charity Advent Calendar 2023, day 13: Artspace Lifespace
This last year has been a big one for Artspace Lifespace.
The arts charity marked 15 years in their flagship venue, The Island, located in a former police station on Nelson Street. Those leading the organisation also saw their custodianship of Ashton Court Mansion extended for another three years and the launch of Sparks Bristol in the old M&S building in Broadmead.
It is a mark of the success of Artspace Lifespace, which specialises in transforming vacant and under-used properties into thriving creative spaces.
is needed now More than ever
However, it has also led to a substantial deficit in the charity’s finances. An ambitious target has been set to raise at least £80,000 before September 2025.
The charity that “sees the creative potential in disused sites others see as a liability”, champions artists and works with communities has a vision for each of its venues to be as self-sustainable as possible, whilst remaining affordable, creative and inclusive.
This last year has been a big one for Artspace Lifespace, who marked 15 years at The Island – photo: Ibi Feher
Speaking about the last year, Kathryn Chiswell-Jones company manager for Artspace Lifespace says the projects have been rewarding – with Sparks seeing 281,000 visitors through its doors since it opened in May.
But the charity needs support to bridge the gap in its finances.
“Our minimum fundraising target for the period between October 2024 to September 2025 is £80,000,” says Kathryn.
“If we smash this goal, this will enable us to reinstate our Artists Bursary scheme, a vital initiative that played a pivotal role in supporting our space in kind residency programme and provide further support to artists. As a charity, any profit we make is reinvested back into the creative community.
“Any support that can be given will be instrumental in sustaining the vibrant artistic community that Artspace Lifespace has cultivated over the years. By contributing to our fundraising efforts, you are not just helping us recover from the challenges of 2023 but also empower us to continue providing meaningful opportunities for artists to thrive.”
Find out more about Artspace Lifespace and how you can support its work via www.artspace.uk/donations/.
Main photo: Paola Di Bella
Read next:
- Arts and sustainability hub needs ‘urgent support’ to keep going
- The Island celebrates 15 years with open studios event
- Sustainability and creativity hub opens within former M&S
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