Recognising the significant role Yorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP) plays in the UK cultural sector, the organisation will remain in Arts Council England’s (ACE) National Portfolio. YSP has been offered £4,010,397 over three years 2023 – 26, which matches funding received for the last 12 years. This vital financial support will build on 45 years as a leading international centre for modern and contemporary sculpture in the UK. This investment will contribute to ensuring YSP can continue to bring world-class art to Yorkshire for a range of diverse communities to enjoy.
Working together to strengthen Britain’s cultural sector, YSP is proud to be included in an impressive portfolio of organisations committed to ACE’s Let’s Create strategy to transform the country through culture. YSP, like other organisations in the sector, relies on vital donations and grants to continue operating. Since its inception, YSP has been devoted to widening access to cultural experiences, which for many people was a real lifeline during, and emerging from, the pandemic. YSP’s unique synthesis of art and nature promotes physical, emotional and mental health that is vital to our individual and societal wellbeing.
Clare Lilley, director of Yorkshire Sculpture Park, says: “We are relieved and grateful to Arts Council England for its continued support of Yorkshire Sculpture Park. This funding decision will enable the team at YSP to bring exceptional sculpture to the UK, to care for this beautiful historic landscape, and to enrich the lives of hundreds of thousands of people who choose to visit every year. The award represents 17% of our annual income and the funding means we can continue our engagement with local people whilst attracting visitors from around the country and overseas. YSP generates approximately £15m a year for the regional economy. At a time when investment in communities in northern England is so vital and the economy so pressured, we feel extremely fortunate to have continued support. Our hearts go out to those who have received unwelcome news today, despite serving their communities so well.”
YSP is an independent charitable trust and registered museum welcoming 400,000 visitors a year to see world-class exhibitions and sculptures sited in an 18th century 500-acre landscape. A sanctuary for visitors, YSP offers the freedom to enjoy and appreciate art and nature. Welcoming over 40,000 learners annually, three generations of people have been inspired to fulfil their creative potential here and we are committed to serving future generations.
Pete Massey, director Yorkshire and Northern Economy and Partnerships, says:
“I’m delighted that we are continuing to fund Yorkshire Sculpture Park as part of our national portfolio. Celebrating its 45th anniversary this year, it attracts thousands of visitors each year to experience fantastic contemporary art and sculpture in the most beautiful setting. I look forward to seeing what they programme for the next few years.”
