Dorset Artists' Emergency Fund

What’s the problem? 

Were you looking forward to seeing that new play, having fun at a festival, belly-laughing at a comedy night, attending an art exhibition or jumping around at a gig this summer? With events cancelled, venues closed and public gatherings restricted it’s not only audiences who are missing out. 

With events cancelled, venues closed and public gatherings restricted many Artists in Dorset (which includes Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole) have had all their work cancelled for this year and are in urgent need of support. A large proportion of these Artists (musicians, comedians, visual artists, directors, actors, writers, film makers etc.) are falling through the gaps when it comes to financial support. Some are unable to pay the bills or put food on the table.

“I have had to borrow money to cover rent, I have then had to borrow more money to pay for food. I have had one job since March, and this has helped me put some food on the table without borrowing money from friends. All of the money will go on essential living costs. I have around £5,000 worth of essential costs to pay off. Which includes paying back the friends I borrowed money from.” - Emergency Fund Applicant

Artwork by Steluna. www.steluna.co.uk.

What does this fund support?

The money collected will help Artists in Dorset (& Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole) to meet their most urgent financial needs during the current crisis. This will help individuals pay their bills and ensure the Dorset arts sector stays afloat ready for the future.

“Pay for everyday struggles since Covid-19: bills, food, everyday bills, help fill the gap. I have been surviving on the basics: food locked up in the cupboard. It gets hard when you have to start paying the bills, tv, phone, lights. I'm hanging on a thread. If I can't pay, they turn it off.” - Emergency Fund Applicant

Artwork by Katie Brookes. www.katiebrookesdesign.co.uk.

Why should we support?

Arts, culture and heritage is vital. It boosts our economy, improves the wellbeing of residents and visitors and creates a strong sense of place and belonging.

Artists are needed for us to see that new play, have fun at a festival, belly-laugh at a comedy night, attend an art exhibition and jump around at a gig. Your help will ensure Artists in Dorset will still be here once the current crisis is over.

"Artists of all kinds bring so much light, laughter and vibrancy to our normal day to day, let's keep the creative arts alive and support those artists! This is a brilliant cause!" - Emergency Fund Supporter

Artworks by: Lucanart ('Support Artists in Dorset' illustration), Steluna (2nd illustration), Katie Brookes (3rd illustration). Photos by: Brendan Buesnel (top left) and Mike Petitdemange (bottom right).

Apply to the Dorset (&BCP) Artists' Emergency Fund here.