Bristol’s cultural organisations that set the pace for promoting the arts and linking them with the business world in the region are to be celebrated at a high-profile event next week.
The Arts & Business Cultural Champions awards take place on March 2 at Bath’s Holburne Museum with Bath MP Don Foster presenting the trophies to the winners.
Bristol’s rich cultural and artistic world is represented by seven organisations – the Bristol Old Vic, Myrtle Theatre Company, Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory, therapeutic arts community Studio Upstairs, cycling routes pioneers Sustrans, the Tobacco Factory Theatre, and Bristol Cultural Development Partnership
The Cultural Champions awards are staged by Arts & Business, the national body encouraging stronger ties between businesses and cultural groups, and provide an opportunity to thank those who are making the most difference to the arts, and highlight their stories to inspire others.
Colin Tweedy from Arts & Business said: “The arts in this country could not survive without the passionate support of thousands of people who generously give their time, expertise and money to help our cultural organisations flourish through difficult times. “Over the past three years we have celebrated more than 200 champions who have given their support and passion to their local cultural landscape.
“It is vital for us to support and celebrate them as they not only inspire tomorrow’s champions, but also everyone else in the community.”
The Holburne Museum itself is among the Cultural Champions and director Alexander Sturgis added: “The transformation of the Holburne Museum wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support we received from many individuals, grant funders and businesses.
“Now, nine months after re-opening and having just achieved a nomination for The Art Fund Prize, we are extremely grateful to these supporters not only for their continued financial support, but also to those who are part of our team of over 200 volunteers (including our dedicated team of trustees) who help to keep the Museum open and free to all.
“We know firsthand that creating inspiring art and cultural activities needs inspiring and committed supporters who give of their time, knowledge and expertise, as well as making donations.”
Other recipients include New Devon Opera, Shepton Mallet’s The Art Tree, Bath Preservation Trust and Theatre Royal Bath and the egg.
