Art Shape celebrates success with funding from the Arts Council for its new 2 year Art Bridge programme.

Dynamic community arts based charitable organisation, Art Shape is delighted to announce success in achieving 2 years funding from the Arts Council to be able to run its new programme of work Art Bridge.

Art Bridge is a tailored, supported, professional, high-level programme of artistic and professional training and mentoring, delivered over 2 calendar years to talented and emerging artists facing disabling barriers. Participants will either be involved in the full programme or will participate through a specially-designed electronic platform. Art Shape’s research has established that Art Bridge addresses a gap in provision at this level and will allow the standard and profile of participants’ work to be raised significantly.

“We are delighted that the Arts Council has shown support for Art Shape and this programme of work. It has been designed to fill an identified gap in provision in Gloucestershire.  Their support will enable us to nurture emerging artists in the county and further afield whilst ensuring equality of access for all involved.”  Lucy Sharp – Managing Director

Art Shape is a local charity, established over 20 years ago, with the aim of improving the health and well being of all through access to arts activities and creative expression. Their particular focus is those who face barriers to mainstream participation whether through disability, living in areas of economic deprivation or recovery from mental illness or substance abuse.

Swan by Paula Bell a participant on our Fine Art Progression Class

And Violins also by a participant of Art Shape’s adult classes

Art Shape is a long – established Gloucestershire equal access arts development organisation. At Art Shape we aim to support and encourage adults in their personal and professional artistic development, and assist them to reach their individual potential. We particularly support people facing barriers to participation such as mental health issues, disability, or people who face issues associated with ageing and isolation. Our work centres around creativity and imagination, equality and access. We recognise each individual’s value, and our approach to our arts work is built on mutual respect, warmth and integrity.

Arts Council England is the national development agency for the arts in England, distributing public money from the Government and the National Lottery.