Summerhall, a renowned arts centre in Edinburgh, Scotland, is facing a critical financial crisis that threatens its very existence. The venue, known for its support of new voices in the arts and its dedication to nurturing and empowering artists, is in urgent need of funding to secure its long-term future.
The current unstable arts funding climate has put Summerhall at risk, prompting the venue to issue an “urgent appeal” for financial support from the public. The centre has been under threat since the owners announced their intention to sell the building earlier this year. However, behind-the-scenes negotiations have led to the creation of a new charity, Summerhall Arts, which aims to continue the venue’s programming.
Despite these efforts, cash is urgently needed to cover expenses such as rent, staffing, and programming costs. Summerhall Arts cannot rely solely on a bid to Creative Scotland for three-year Scottish Government funding, as the decision is pending and time is of the essence.
In response to this crisis, a new public appeal has been launched to bridge the financial gap and ensure the venue’s survival for years to come. Performance poet and artist Imogen Stirling emphasized the importance of supporting Summerhall, stating that it is a venue that values and uplifts artists, providing a platform for new voices and bold expressions.
If funding is secured, Summerhall Arts plans to continue supporting live performances by commissioning and developing new works, as well as collaborating with local and international theatre companies to showcase innovative productions. However, without additional funds, the venue’s future remains uncertain.
In an effort to keep the venue operational in the coming year, Summerhall Arts has set a target of £150,000 and has launched a donation website for those who wish to contribute. The charity’s appeal highlights the importance of preserving Summerhall as a cultural landmark in Edinburgh, fostering creativity, collaboration, and cultural exchange.
Since its establishment in 2011 by arts philanthropist Robert McDowell, Summerhall has transformed Edinburgh University’s former vet school building into one of the largest privately-owned multi-arts centres in Europe. The venue hosts over 120 businesses and freelancers and attracts a million visitors annually, with a significant audience spike during the Fringe Festival in August.
During this year’s Fringe, Summerhall hosted more than 100 different shows and events, showcasing a diverse range of performances and exhibitions. The venue’s visual arts programme, led by head of visual arts and cinema Sam Chapman, has been instrumental in supporting local and national creatives through exhibitions and commissions.
As arts and culture in Scotland face economic challenges, it is crucial to ensure the preservation of institutions like Summerhall that provide a platform for artistic expression and community engagement. By donating to Summerhall Arts, supporters can help sustain the venue’s commitment to non-commercial artwork, accessibility, and inclusivity within the national creative community.