Disabled Artists Brush Up on Fundraising

Learning disabled artists in Leeds have rallied to secure the future of a charity amidst rising costs and funding cuts. 

Pyramid, which supports nearly 60 people with learning disabilities and autism to discover the arts and develop as artists every year, delivers more than 1,500 hours of creative workshops while contributing to leading research on inclusive arts.  

Despite the significance of this work, Pyramid finds itself at a crossroads as it faces an increasingly challenging fundraising environment. 

By launching a crowdfunder project, Protect Pyramid’s Future, the charity aims to raise £20,000 by September 1 to strengthen the organisation's long-term sustainability.

Donations will help protect Pyramid's weekly art groups, flexible studio time, and individual artist support, while helping the organisation develop a new line of products for retail that showcases their members' artwork to a wider audience. 

Alfie (pictured above), an artist with a learning disability, has been a Pyramid member for over six years, travelling from North Yorkshire to attend the organisation’s accessible studio space and unique, person-centred art programme. 

“I love coming to Pyramid as it is a place where people listen to my ideas and help me develop,” said Alfie.

“I have learnt lots of new things at Pyramid and it was a dream come true to work on projects with a professional film maker. Pyramid has given me so many opportunities to make art and advocate for myself.”

Since launching, the crowdfunder has received donations from more than 60 supporters and has already raised 15% of its £20,000 target. 

The funds raised will help ensure Pyramid can continue providing life-changing creative opportunities for artists with learning disabilities and autism as it reshapes itself for the future.  

“Pyramid is incredibly unique in the support we offer artists like Alfie,” said Mindy Goose, Trustee of Pyramid.

“Without us, many people with learning disabilities and autism in Yorkshire wouldn’t be able to develop the skills and confidence they need to go on to become working artists. 

“We know our work makes a real difference to our members and to the cultural life of the region. But like many arts organisations, we are facing significant financial pressures that have brought us to this critical moment. Without additional support, we will have to make difficult decisions about our future programme. 

“Our members want to make big change through big art to help challenge perceptions and inspire change for many years to come. We hope our community in Leeds and beyond will stand with us by supporting our crowdfunder and helping secure Pyramid’s future.”

To find out more about Protect Pyramid's Future or to donate, visit:  https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/protect-pyramid.