News – Boost to international art in the regions

A new £5m scheme, Art Fund International has been launched by the Art Fund to encourage regional galleries, which have historically focussed on collecting the work of British artists, to also acquire works by international artists. The aim of the scheme is to help prevent Britain being left behind when non-British artworks of international importance appear on the market. David Barrie, Director of the Art Fund, comments, “We have wonderful museums and galleries packed full of historic art from all over the world, but over the last 100 years weve all too often turned our backs on the most exciting works being made by living artists from overseas. Its too late to put that right but this scheme is designed to make sure we dont make the same mistakes going forward.”
Art Fund International marks a significant addition to the Art Funds existing schemes but differs in its eligibility criteria: applications will not be accepted from galleries in London or Edinburgh and match funding will not be required. Furthermore, artworks must be purchased in partnership between the gallery and a contemporary exhibition space or independent commissioning agency who, it is anticipated, will be able to advise and offer their expertise. The new fund will run in addition to the Art Funds regular grant-giving programme and is set to be rolled out over a five-year period.

w: {artfund.org}