The idea
For 22 years, Bloc Projects has built a reputation for being a forward-thinking gallery with firm roots in the local cultural ecology. In recent years, we've taken on the stewardship of 2 meanwhile spaces as well as initiated offsite projects, making it possible for more publics to engage with contemporary art. Yet we are always facing fundraising challenges and 2024 has been harder than others.
We'd planned an exciting year ahead, featuring programmes, participatory events and an enriched artist development membership that are unfortunately at a standstill, due to the rejection of a crucial bid.
As such, we are pausing our programme to focus on securing the future of Bloc Projects. This crowdfunder will contribute 2 months' worth of core costs and overheads so that we can continue fundraising and hopefully reviving the work we do as soon as possible.
What we'll deliver
- a free and socially relevant art programme
- in-person and online participatory workshops and events
- an artist development network in conjunction with 4 art organisations located across the UK
- 2 meanwhile spaces providing affordable studios and exhibition opportunities
Why it's a great idea
The success of this crowdfunder would mean that Bloc Projects can continue making contemporary art accessible in Sheffield. Benefits include:
- The continual advocacy of contemporary art and its place in Sheffield and broader society
- The support for 170+ practitioners through our meanwhile spaces and membership, alongside 50+ practitioners through our programme annually
- Being a smaller, more intimate and encouraging environment for contemporary art
- A wide range of exhibitions and events for the participation of underrepresented lived experiences (in particular: diaspora groups and people with disabilities)
Bloc Projects also plays a key role in the professionalisation and accessibility of art, working with Sheffield universities and local organisations to co-develop practices. Outcomes include:
1. Socially engaged art projects
2. New audiences and publics participating in contemporary art
3. Being a first port of call for early- to mid-career practitioners
Steps to get it done
- Structure and map out our programme funding needs in 2025/26
- Make and deepen our collaborations and partnerships
- Plan best and worst case scenarios for the organisation
