A COVENTRY multi-use arts space has made a desperate plea for funding as it struggles it keep its doors open until the New Year.
Commonground has been at FarGo Village since summer 2021 and has been hosting a range of exhibitions in the city, including painting and photography showcases.
It has also provided space for events including live acts, art installations and DJ nights, and works closely with its neighbours, Art Riot Collective, to help offer an accessible and inclusive space for local art lovers.
However, it is now facing closure, with bosses fearing it won’t survive to see 2024 if it can’t cover its current costs.
If they make it to the New Year, a plan is in place to ensure its long-term survival with new funding options and a fresh programme of events.
Founders Kate Rossin and John Randle have been using their own savings, personal loans and selling food and drink to pay for the overheads, without taking a wage.
A crowdfunder page has been set up to help get the venue through these crucial few weeks and it has so far raised over £3,500 of the £12,000 target.
Several talented local artists have donated artworks to use as incentives for people to donate.
Kyla Craig from Art Riot Collective said: “Commonground is one of the only accessible spaces in Coventry where you can access high-quality art.
“Art Riot Collective thrives from the connection and accessible environment Commonground offers.
“We often hold our network events in the space which not only offers access to high-quality art but great healthy food and drinks, events and opportunities.
“It has become our home from home and without it, some of the most marginalised groups of people in Coventry, disabled and neurodivergent artists and supporters would have nowhere to go and connect with other artists, see inspiring work and feel part of the wider artistic community”.
Visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/savecommonground? to donate to Commonground.
