Show latest news, more from November 2004.
Own Art Buying Scheme is Launched
Arts Council England is launching a new scheme aimed at getting more people to purchase original art, called the Own Art sheme, on November 24 in Birmingham. The scheme is aimed at encouraging art purchases through interest-free loans and is a national manifestation of previously regional schemes. Art purchases of up to £2000 pounds will be funded by interest-free loans in 250 galleries across the country. The scheme encompasses nearly all mediums – from painting, sculpture and photography to jewellery, furniture and glass. A report commissioned by the Arts Council England last year estimated that 4.9 million people in Britain have bought original art, but that roughly 5.9 million aspire to buy it. Reasons for not doing are commonly cited as the way in which the artwork is presented and sold. Not enough information or promotion is available to these buyers, and there is a notable lack of infrastructure outside London. Own Art, spread across the entire country is a step to redress this imbalance, and act as a positive incentive to get people into galleries with a purchase in mind. Sir Christopher Frayling, Chair of Arts Council England says, 'We want the arts to be at the heart of our national life and I believe that Own Art can bring about a real change in the way we engage with the contemporary visual arts. The art market outside London is underdeveloped yet we know there is enormous scope for growth. Many more people will now be able to enjoy living with original, high-quality contemporary art in their own homes. Art needn’t be restricted to big white-painted gallery spaces.' For details of the 250 galleries participating in Own Art CLICK HERE For a summary of the Taste Buds report CLICK HERE
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