We're over the moon! BACKLIT will receive £480,657 from Arts Council England through its Capital Investment Programme!

This incredible boost will help us fuel the amazing talent and creativity in our city.

BACKLIT has always been a welcoming space for marginalised artists, including those from working-class backgrounds, the LGBTQ+ community, people of colour, female artists, and neurodivergent people.

This funding is for us all.

Our Plans So Far

Click through the images below to see our vision for BACKLIT.

This Government funding is part of Arts Council England’s investment to build stronger communities throughout England.

Our plans emphasise

Accessibility: Accessible parking spaces, a new gate, and improved lift access to make our gallery an accessible destination for everybody.
Community Spaces: A community cafe and a garden will provide places for artists, residents, and visitors to relax and socialise.
Sustainability: New energy efficient heating and electrical installation, including LED light fittings, will ensure we meet our environmental goals.
New Fabrication Space: Repurposing existing gallery space will give us an additional workshop and fabrication facilities, and a materials store.
Community Consulations: We want to hear from you - our visitors and artists - every step of the way. Please get in touch if you have any ideas, opinions, or insights that you'd like to share!

Peter Knott, Midlands Area Director at Arts Council England, shares his excitement for our plans:

“We’re absolutely thrilled to support Nottingham’s BACKLIT gallery and studios with funding for the purchase and redevelopment of their building. They play such a vital role in enriching the cultural tapestry of Nottingham, and we’re delighted to be a part of it.”

A massive congratulations and thank you to our Co-Directors Matthew Chesney and Suzanne Golden for all their hard work in securing these funds.