A campaing has been launched to save the Black Swan Arts Centre, a charity at risk of closure due to rising energy bills.
Located at 2 Bridge Street, the arts centre is a hub for arts and crafts, hosting a gallery, artist studios, a shop, a space for writers, and a café. As a charity, it supports emerging artists and, among various events, runs the Young Artist Open every year.
However, with energy bills having doubled over the past couple of years, trustees of Black Swan Arts are urging the community to help raise a crucial £10,000 to keep the centre open.
With around £3,700 already raised, co-chair trustee Ian Fooks said that if the target is not reached, the centre could face closure, which would have a significant impact on the town. He added that a decision will be made as soon as the end of April.
“It looks like we may have to shut the doors at the end of April unless we receive more funding,” said Ian. “That would mean no more free exhibitions, no community events, no support for young people or vulnerable members of the community, and no employment or volunteering opportunities.”
In addition to appealing for support from the community, the trustees have been applying for various Arts Council and National Lottery grants.
“The centre is free for people to visit with their families,” explained Ian. “For many of our 30 volunteers, it’s a safe space; they find a sense of community there. They help at exhibitions and events, and without the centre, many would lose that opportunity.”
He added, “If we close, many people will lose jobs and studios, and it will have a big impact on the town.”
Last year, the centre’s boiler broke, costing the team £8,000 to repair. “All our reserves have been spent on the building,” said Ian.
Despite the threat of closure, the team is still making long-term plans in the hope of staying open, especially as they look forward to celebrating the Black Swan Arts’ 40th anniversary next year.
“We have long-term strategic goals. It’s our 40th anniversary next year, so now seems like the right time to secure our future,” Ian explained. “We are reaching out to local people in the hope they will support us. We promise that 100% of every donation will be used to keep the doors open.”
To support the campaign, visit the JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/blackswanarts
Pictured: Co-chair trustee Ian Fooks
