1. ArtExpress seeks to provide funding to liberate African artists from economic pressures hence stimulating innovative African arts and artworks production in the process. The fund supports individual artists and groups of artists in projects including painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, digital media, printing, mixed media and any other form of visual art in Africa. There are two aspects that receive particular attention in funding decisions taken by the art fund: The artistic projects must appeal to new target groups, and the works must contribute towards the development of new, authentic, high-quality African art as well as cultural identity. The aim is for the innovative approaches of ArtExpress Art Fund projects to contribute to a new dynamic within the African arts scene while enriching the cultural sector.
2. ArtExpress has introduced ABAF (ArtExpress Black Artist Fund) which is a no-strings financial support to help black artists. They can spend the fund on whatever they want – to make new work, buy equipment or materials, travel, research, visit exhibitions or conferences, or to cover expenses. This fund was set up because black artists are systematically under-supported by the art world; by institutions, curators, the artist-led scene, major and minor funding bodies, the market, art schools, and audiences.
3. For immigrant artists, cultural and professional challenges are often intertwined, shaping their experiences within the UK art world. While their unique backgrounds can provide a compelling foundation for their work, these same attributes can present obstacles to gaining recognition and integration within the established art community.
The acceptance of immigrant artists in the UK can be hampered by the biases and structural limitations inherent in the art world. The UK art scene, like many others, often operates within networks and circles that favour familiarity and established connections. This environment can marginalise immigrant artists, who may not have access to these networks or struggle to translate their work into the local art discourse.
Financial stability and social support are crucial for any artist’s career, yet immigrant artists in the UK often find these aspects elusive. These financial and social struggles intensify as they strive to establish themselves while facing financial limitations and the challenges of social isolation.
The aim of ArtExpress Immigrant Artist Fund is to foster inclusivity within the UK art scene, offering immigrant artists language support, mentorship, and networking opportunities. These programmes are instrumental in easing the transition and empowering artists to express their cultural identities freely while navigating the UK’s complex artistic landscape. Immigrant artist support initiatives are crucial in supporting these artists as they rebuild their careers in a new environment, contributing to a more diverse and vibrant artistic community.
