If the impact of the arts on society is a key driver for donations, that’s even more likely to be the case when the impact is close to somewhere donors live, were born or feel passionately about.
A key part of the work of Figurative’s philanthropy team New Philanthropy for Arts & Culture (NPAC) to date has been the development of place-based networks, focusing on the role and positive impact of arts and culture on a community and rallying the community around that cause.
The importance of a local approach has been seen in several successful location-based culture driven redevelopments across the country, including initiatives created as part of both successful and unsuccessful bids for UK City of Culture. Through cultural development, significant positive change can be brought to areas in a number of ways, for example:
- Helping a place, and particularly its young people, to grow more confident, raise aspiration and attainment levels and create many more opportunities to develop as individuals
- Building a society that is more inclusive and can help tackle issues of discrimination, loneliness and social isolation
- Creating a healthier populace and increase the wellbeing of citizens
- Driving economic regeneration and growth
- Creating a better place in which to live and work, embedding sustainable social change for future generations
Since 2021, NPAC has been working with colleagues from the sector to support the creation of place-based networks of philanthropists, building on conversations and research in each location. We are either working in partnership with the local cultural compact, through engagement with the City Council, or through personal connections with philanthropists (in some cases all three), supported by conversations with creative and cultural organisations in each location.
We have developed a number of different models for place-based philanthropy with our regional partners. In some cases discussions are in relatively early stages, although in others charities and partnerships have been established. And, of course, each model will be adapted to the specific issues in each location. Networks are currently being supported and developed in Sunderland, Newcastle, Birmingham, Leeds, Stoke and Middlesborough, with networks in early planning in Gloucester and Hastings & Rother with further locations to be identified.
Get Involved
If you are interested in joining one of our networks or setting up a place-based network in your area, please contact us for help and advice.
