Support in kind

In general, it is easier to try getting goods and services for free or reduced prices than cash from businesses, which may be interested in sponsoring parts of your programme, especially education programmes.

Businesses can be persuaded to provide catering or alcohol for private views, printing for invitations, distribution through their outlets or even paints and other materials used when installing exhibitions – try to meet people in the businesses who can help and talk to them about what you are trying to do and, crucially, the benefit to them.  Your local council may also be of financial assistance, or might write letters of support on your behalf for funding or support in kind applications.  You may agree with exhibiting artists that sales will attract a commission, but depending on the work you show this can be impossible.  It is important to plan budgets very carefully to avoid financial difficulties for which you may be personally liable, depending on the kind of organisation you set up.

This article is from the Artlaw Archive of Henry Lydiate's columns published in Art Monthly since 1976, and may contain out of date material.
The article is for information only, and not for the purpose of providing legal advice.
Readers should consult a solicitor for legal advice on specific matters, and artists in London can get free online legal advice from Artquest