7 November 2013

Artrix praises volunteers and launches funding plan

Latest NewsA DRINKS reception was held at Bromsgrove’s Artrix to thank the centre’s 75 volunteers for their hard work and to unveil the future fund-raising plans for the centre for the next decade.

Around 50 people went along to the event on Monday (November 4) to celebrate those who gave up their time to ensure events at the venue ran smoothly.

With regard to funding, a ten-year agreement with Bromsgrove District Council to provide Artrix with an annual grant of £120,000 will be reviewed in 2015 and it is thought, due to increased economic pressures on the authority, it could come to an end.

That cash makes up 14 per cent of Artrix’s income and has been used to pay for variety of programmes, community events and activities, as well as the building’s upkeep. Bosses at the arts centre want to make sure plans are in place if that cash is no longer available.

A fund-raising campaign was launched in the summer, which focuses on the centre serving the community more than ever before.

The charity will be vying to improve its existing support for the outreach and community activities, along with its work with promising artists which has already helped Artrix thrive in last few years despite the economic climate. Last year alone, the venue welcomed more than 100,000 visitors from across the country.

Creative director Andy Woods (pictured above with Dorothy Wilson, Chair of the Trustees) said Artrix had been lucky in being able to attract talented performers who enabled the venue to put on some outstanding productions.

He added the centre would focus on making the most out of its available resources so it could offer an even bigger range of events, activities and services.

And he said Artrix would strive to carry on producing smaller productions which appealed to niche audiences, as well as the big shows which attracted large crowds.

The centre is run by three full-time and 12 part-time members of staff who are well-supported by the 75 invaluable volunteers.

Dorothy Wilson, chair of the board of trustees, said: “We want people to be a part of Artrix – if you enjoy what Artrix does and want to help it on its way, we would like you to publicise it and tell your friends.”

A special thanks was also given to the district council, NEW College and all the members from the community for their support over the last eight and half years in helping Artrix ‘change the landscape of artistic provision in Bromsgrove and the surrounding areas’.

Anybody who wants to find out more about Artrix can call 01527 577330 or visit www.artrix.co.uk

To help it with funding and fund-raising, call 01527 752730.