Ullapool arts charity An Talla Solais to launch crowdfunder to secure its future
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An Talla Solais has until recently had use of a gallery space rented from a local hotel to exhibit art and hold community events.
However the hotel now needs the space back and, without a site to bring people together, the charity finds itself at a crucial point.
A spokeswoman said: “In years gone by the charity has shown work from internationally renowned artists, as well as local artists and students.
“Alongside exhibitions, the charity works with people living with dementia through the Dolphin Arts project, and over lockdown ran community-led workshops online.
“These sought to encourage people who might not otherwise interact with art to engage in creative projects and connect with others.
“The benefits of creativity on mental health are well known and, through community work, the charity hopes to tackle isolation and loneliness – issues often felt more heavily in rural locations.”
The charity hopes to renovate its current office building in order to create a multi-purpose space where, alongside studio rooms and a ceramics facility, a dedicated community space will be created for workshops, events and exhibitions.
However, the building as it stands needs significant work to be used in this way.
An Talla Solais will launch its crowdfunding campaign through Crowdfunder UK and the Aviva Community Fund on Tuesday next week.
Jude Brooks, head of corporate social responsibility at Aviva, said: “We are extremely proud to support An Talla Solais and look forward to enabling them to bring their ideas to life.”
An Talla Solais has an initial target of £10,000, but hopes to raise enough to reach a stretch target of £20,000 before December.
It has created a range of rewards in thanks for donations, from exhibition cards and posters to photography workshops, prints and original paintings.
To support the campaign go to www.avivacommunityfund.co.uk/help-secure-the-future-of-an-talla-solais
