Bristol’s landmark RWA (Royal West of England Academy) is calling on the support of the city’s businesses as it looks to raise the final £100,000 of a £4.1m transformational project that will make it one of the UK’s most accessible art galleries.
The Light and Inspiration capital programme is the most significant refurbishment of the iconic Grade II listed building in over a century. 
As well as urgent repairs to save it from risk of permanent closure, it is also delivering a number of major improvements to fulfil its ambition of ‘art for all’ and enable everyone to use the building and enjoy its exhibitions.
Despite being a tightly managed project, the pandemic, supply chain delays and other unforeseen issues increased costs from £3.8m to £4.1m, while the reopening, originally planned for this January has now been put back to May.
The RWA aims to raise the final £100,000 by the end of this month to complete the work.
A local family trust has offered to match donations to the crowdfunding campaign up to the value of £50,000, meaning only £50,000 needs to come from public donations.
The crowdfunder is also being supported by two Bristol firms that previously sponsored fundraising appeals – accountancy group Smith & Williamson and Sarah Kenny Residential Lettings.
Once re-opened, the RWA will also feature a new 50-cover café on the ground floor which will open up to allow al fresco dining on the paved area fronting onto Whiteladies Road and overlooking the Victoria Rooms – what RWA director Alison Bevan says will be “one of the most beautiful spots in Bristol”. 
Talks are now taking place to sign an operator for the café – the latest in a string of Bristol arts venues to bring in much-needed revenue in such a way and following on from similar projects at St George’s, Bristol Beacon, the Bristol Old Vic and the Architecture Centre.
The redevelopment, which is being carried out by specialist construction firm Beard, also includes:
- Free to access galleries on all three floors for the first time
- A new, large lift that can carry four wheelchair users and their carers
- A new wheelchair-accessible toilet and Changing Places facility, so that people with profound and severe disabilities can enjoy art on equal terms
- A quiet room for visitors with sensory requirements or autism
- A Family Activity Space where people of all ages are encouraged to create their own masterpiece
- New roof lanterns and glass doors to regulate temperature and make the whole building lighter, brighter and more welcoming – and reduce environmental impact and energy costs
- An outdoor events space for sculpture and public art.
The majority of the funding has been raised through national and local donors, including the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Arts Council England and John James Bristol charitable foundation.
Business supporters include Bristol Port Company, law firm DAC Beachcroft and catering supply firm Nisbet.
Alison Bevan, pictured with Beard director Mike Hedges, added: “This redevelopment of the RWA will absolutely transform our building and give us beautiful, world-class galleries that everyone can enjoy – we will be the most accessible gallery from London to St Ives.
“The work has been 20 years in the making and is the biggest refurbishment seen in our 175-year-old history.
“It’s also given us the opportunity to completely reimagine the space and create an environment that is completely accessible and welcoming to everyone.
“It will allow us to welcome 40% more visitors through our doors each year, enabling us to reach greater and more diverse audiences and also help us to be more financially sustainable.
“It will also enable us to extend our community and wellbeing programmes, so that more people from under-represented communities across Bristol have the opportunity to engage in art and creativity.”
The building is due to officially reopen on May 2 with a landmark exhibition called ‘Me, Myself, I: Artists’ Self Portraits’, curated by internationally acclaimed and Bristol-based curator, artistic director and writer, Tessa Jackson OBE, featuring more than 80 works and bringing together well-known artists alongside current and emerging talent. Tickets are on sale at rwa.org.uk/whatson
To watch the RWA’s crowdfunding campaign video and donate, visit wwcrowdfunder.co.uk/p/lightupliveswithart
