VAE has new local ambassador to support artists and makers

VAE has new local ambassador to support artists and makers

Tony Spencer writes about his work for VAE:

Some of you may already know about Voluntary Arts England, a national organisation supporting the arts and crafts, and funded by the Arts Council. You may have benefited from some of the important services and information that our organisation can offer. Or it may be completely new to you. Even if you already know about our services, these are constantly developing, and we have much to offer all individuals and groups involved in the arts.

Our principal aim is to increase participation in arts and crafts- related activities. We are aware that there are many excellent opportunities available, especially in this part of the country, for taking part in exciting creative work.  This is something that can only be great for everyone, including those already involved in these kinds of activities. More people involved leads to a much richer experience for all, and VAE has a wide range of strategies and advice for building participation. There is a wealth of information and support available through VAE, all totally free of charge; from advice on finding funding for your group and how to apply for it effectively, to opportunities for sharing experiences and resources. You can even advertise your work and performances on our website.

Our organisation has another key role as a lobbying force, constantly pressing for greater recognition and funding for arts organisations and individuals at all levels, but with particular emphasis on voluntary groups and those who are not always included in key decisions.

I have recently become involved with VAE as a voluntary Arts Ambassador, one of several across the country, through a personal wish to encourage others to develop existing skills, gain new skills and fulfilment, and to build confidence through taking part in creative activities. This is something I have always pursued in my long career as a teacher of Creative Studies. My role as an ambassador is to visit groups in the area who want to find out more about what we can offer. There is no charge for our visits, which can consist of a brief introduction to our work, through to a full-scale presentation with examples of successful projects that we have already instigated and some very exciting new developments which are coming up.

If you are interested in arranging a visit for your group, please get in touch through our Head Office at Voluntary Arts England, PO Box 1056, Newcastle. NE99 1UE, tel. 0191 230 4464, or email our Information and Research Officer, Paul Devlin, at paul@vaengland.org.uk