Axis Web
Charity number 1002841
A company limited by guarantee number 02595018
Annual Report and Financial Statements
for the year ended 31 March 2024
Axis Web
Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year ended 31 March 2024
| Contents | Page |
|---|---|
| Trustees' report | 2 to 12 |
| Examiner's report | 13 |
| Statement of financial activities | 14 |
| Balance sheet | 15 |
| Notes to the accounts | 16 to 21 |
Prepared by West Yorkshire Community Accountancy Service CIO
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Trustees' report for the year ended 31 March 2024
Reference and administrative details of the charity, its trustees and advisors
The trustees during the financial year and up to and including the date the report was approved were: Name Position Dates Lisa Stansbie Chair Rupert Wilcox-Baker Deputy Chair Sarah Martin Resigned December 2022 Sue Williams Holly Slingsby Fiona Grady Juan Carlos Candanedo Saez Pamela Newall Appointed June 2022 Laura Nelson Appointed June 2022 Radhika Patel Appointed November 2022 Diana Ali Appointed July 2023 Edwin Colyer Appointed July 2023 Charity number 1002841 Registered in England and Wales Company number 02595018 Registered in England and Wales Registered and principal address Bankers The Art House National Westminster Bank Plc Drury Lane 8 Park Row Wakefield Leeds WF1 2TE LS1 2TW
Independent examiner
Simon Bostrom FCIE
West Yorkshire Community Accountancy Service CIO
Stringer House 34 Lupton Street Leeds LS10 2QW
Structure, governance and management
The charity is a company limited by guarantee and was formed on 25 March 1991. It is governed by a memorandum and articles of association as amended by special resolutions dated 17 April 2003, 25 December 2004, 30 November 2006, 20 December 2019 and 8 April 2021. The liability of the members in the event of the company being wound up is limited to a sum not exceeding £1.
Method of recruitment and appointment of trustees
The trustees of the charity are also the directors for the purposes of company law and are appointed by the members at the AGM.
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Trustees' report (continued) for the year ended 31 March 2024
Objectives and activities
The charity's objects
Our Charity's purposes, as set out in the objects contained in the company's memorandum of association, are to:
advance the education of the public by promoting and developing the understanding and appreciations of the visual arts in the United Kingdom,
in particular by extending the influence in and relevance of the visual arts to the community, by creating new opportunities in the visual arts,
by encouraging and facilitating an increase in good practice in the visual arts.
Our Vision and Mission
We believe art creates positive changes in society. Art connects, inspires conversations and builds understanding.
Our vision is of a society where art is part of everyday life, accessible to all, inspiring creativity, empathy and innovation.
Our mission is to champion and support contemporary visual arts in the UK and broaden public engagement with the arts. By providing artists with resources, opportunities, and platforms to showcase their work, we make contemporary art more accessible and engaging for all, fostering a vibrant and inclusive arts.
Public benefit statement
In setting our objectives and planning our activities our Trustees have given serious consideration to the Charity Commission’s general guidance on public benefit.
Achievements and performance
As we look back over the past year, we are filled with pride at the strides we have made in championing contemporary visual arts. This year has been a true test of our resilience and innovation, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to our mission.
Our community has flourished, with over 10,000 members now part of the Axis family. Our curated programmes, events, and initiatives have reached unprecedented heights, making contemporary art more accessible and engaging for all. From supporting artists through our Fellowship and Bursary schemes to transforming empty properties into vibrant creative hubs, our efforts have continued to inspire and energise communities across the UK.
Our Cause and Strategy
At Axis, we believe in the transformative power of contemporary visual arts. Our vision is of a society where art is an everyday experience, accessible to all, and a source of inspiration for creativity, empathy, and innovation. We champion and support contemporary visual arts in the UK by providing artists with the resources, opportunities, and platforms they need to thrive.
In the face of challenges like funding cuts, rising costs, and systemic pressures on artists, Axis remains a pillar of resilience and engagement in the contemporary visual arts sector. Our strategy focuses on:
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1 Supporting Artists: Empowering artists with the resources, opportunities, and platforms necessary for their professional and personal growth.
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2 Engaging Audiences: Making contemporary art more accessible and relevant through innovative presentations, digital engagement, and community involvement.
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3 Fostering Inclusivity and Sustainability: Promoting diversity, sustainability, and a supportive arts community.
We are committed to listening to artists, understanding their needs, and shaping a future that values and actively supports the creative and transformative power of the arts.
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Trustees' report (continued) for the year ended 31 March 2024
Axis Fellowship: Empowering Artistic Growth
The Axis Fellowship is a testament to our dedication to nurturing early to mid-career artists. This year, the fellowship provided essential financial support, mentorship, and promotional platforms, enabling artists to advance their careers and increase their visibility in the contemporary art scene.
In 2023, we proudly supported four exceptional artists: Harriet Bowman, Charlotte Cullen, Sam Hutchinson, and Farida Yesmin. Over a transformative six month journey, these artists immersed themselves in a dynamic process of growth and development. Each fellow received £4,000, alongside peer-shared learning and collaboration, allowing the fellows to exchange ideas, insights, and experiences. Personalised one-onone mentoring sessions with Axis staff and guest mentors provided tailored guidance, helping each artist navigate their unique creative path.
The fellowship's impact was profound. The financial support and targeted mentorship fuelled substantial advancements in their creative practices. Our promotional efforts increased their visibility, leading to new opportunities and a broader audience for their work. The sense of community within the cohort provided valuable networking opportunities and peer support, enriching their professional journeys.
Farida Yasmin shared "This has been a gift for me, it's my first experience of a Fellowship. All artists are struggling to get work, and everyone deserves to be able to develop their practice. I never felt as though I would have time to develop my practice but the Fellowship has given me the time to focus on my artwork. This is a great opportunity and it will hopefully open the gate to other opportunities. It's unbelievable, it's a dream!"
Event Overview
In 2023, Axis hosted a total of 18 events, reaching an audience of almost 3,000 individuals. These events ranged from professional development workshops to artist talks, performances, and showcases, designed to support and engage our artistic community.
Mental Health for Artists Series:
Hosted two successful seasons, addressing critical issues surrounding mental health in the arts. These events attracted 1,630 participants, with legacy resources available in our members-only knowledge base.
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1 "Putting Care at the Centre When Carelessness Reigns" with Jade de Montserrat: A powerful critique of the systemic and structural expectations that contribute to mental ill health in the art world.
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2 "Boys Don't Cry" Talk with Marcus Nelson: Shared his personal journey and the importance of men's mental health, highlighting the role of creativity in fostering self-expression.
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3 Hannah Hull (AKA Burning Salt) on Mental Health for Artists: Discussed the impact of C-PTSD and ADHD on their art career, sharing sustainable models of practice for disabled creatives.
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4 "Embodied Practice: Exploring Loss and Grief through Art-Making" with Annabel Pettigrew and Holly Slingsby: A session on using art to navigate loss and grief, providing a compassionate space for creative exploration.
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5 "Art + Grief: Burning Out and Figuring Out What Matters" with Chris Alton: An insightful talk and screening exploring the intersection of art and grief, delving into the impacts of burnout and the journey towards understanding what truly matters in life and art.
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6 "Tackling Burnout: Self-Compassion for 'Rebel Creatives'" with Jane Claire Bradley: Focused on strategies for managing burnout through self-compassion and resilience, offering practical advice for sustaining mental health.
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7 "The Art of Pleasure: In Conversation with Sarah-Joy Ford": Explored the concept of pleasure in art, discussing how joy and satisfaction can play critical roles in creative practices and mental wellbeing.
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8 "Listening Better" with Amelia Hawk: A seminar focusing on the power of listening and its impact on creative collaboration and personal well-being.
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9 "Old in Art School: In Conversation with Nell Painter": A dialogue about the experience of pursuing art later in life, offering insights into the unique challenges and rewards of this journey.
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Trustees' report (continued) for the year ended 31 March 2024
Participant feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the value of these conversations in their personal and professional lives: "These talks provided a safe space to explore and discuss our mental health challenges, reminding us that we are not alone."
Back to School Series
Our 'Back to School' series ran through September and October, offering professional development and practical advice for artists. The series saw 755 participants, providing them with valuable insights and skills to advance their careers.
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1 Writing in Art with Lauren Velvick: Curator and writer Lauren Velvick led a session on the importance of writing in art, focusing on contemporary innovations in writing, including reviews and artist statements.
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2 Financial Literacy for Artists with Pamela Crowe: With over 25 years of experience in arts finance, Pamela Crowe demystified self-employment, tax, and financial record-keeping, providing artists with essential financial management skills.
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3 Digital Exhibition Techniques with Antonio Roberts: Birmingham-based artist Antonio Roberts discussed strategies for effectively showcasing work digitally, covering video and live work, which are increasingly vital in today's digital-first world.
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4 Sustainability in Practice with Lydia Catterall: Focused on the need for sustainability in the creative industry, emphasising care, connection, and measuring success on individual terms.
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5 Eco-Responsibility in Art with Sean Roy Parker: Explored the socio-economic pressures on artists and encouraged eco-conscious practices, examining ways to engage authentically while taking risks.
Participants appreciated the practical advice and mentorship provided: "This series has been invaluable in helping me navigate the practical aspects of my art career."
Dragging Up An Exhibition: An Unlikely Cast of Characters
We commissioned artist Elly Clarke to lead an innovative online collaboration, "Dragging Up An Exhibition: An Unlikely Cast of Characters." This collaboration brought together 10 artists from the UK, Switzerland, Belgium, and India.
Artists curated an exhibition from found objects in their homes, exploring the stories these objects might tell through writing, role play, and discussion. The project culminated in a live Zoom event, where artists presented each other's pieces, providing an audio-visual tour of the exhibition and discussing the work. The exhibition featured interpretative texts and a jointly-written curatorial statement.
This event highlighted the power of collaboration and digital platforms in fostering global dialogue and creativity in contemporary art.
Building a Supportive Community
At Axis, we aim to foster a vibrant, collaborative network where artists, makers, and art workers can regularly connect, share resources, and collaborate. This year, our community platform has continued to grow and support our members, becoming a vital hub for connection and collaboration.
Our community is designed to:
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Enhance Growth and Success: By providing a network dedicated to mutual support and collaboration, we enhance each member's growth and success.
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Support Artists’ Aspirations: Leveraging our independence from public funding, we focus solely on what's best for our members without profit motives.
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Champion Diversity and Inclusivity: We create a welcoming space for all creative voices to be heard and celebrated, promoting diversity within the arts.
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Trustees' report (continued) for the year ended 31 March 2024
We hosted 36 networking events attended by almost 500 members, offering numerous opportunities for our members to engage with one another, share their work, and gain valuable insights. These events included evening meet-ups, lunchtime discussions, and themed sessions covering topics such as social media for artists, financial management, and sharing artistic practices.
One participant noted, "The networking events have been a game-changer for me. They have provided a platform to connect with peers, share experiences, and learn from each other."
Our community platform also serves as a hub for exchanging tools, materials, processes, and advice. This online sharing platform has made shared resources readily available, promoting reflective practices and providing artists with the support they need to advance their creative and professional journeys.
We have also offered numerous opportunities for our members to present their work through community showcases. These events provide a platform for artists to engage with peers, receive supportive feedback, and increase their exposure. By promoting reflective practices and celebrating creative excellence, these showcases play a crucial role in our community’s vibrancy.
Critical Friend Conversations
The Critical Friend Conversations programme, led by the Axis team, trustees, artists, and curators, has been a significant part of our community support efforts. This initiative offers one-on-one sessions providing artists with tailored advice and mentorship. Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with many highlighting the practical and emotional support they received.
"My conversations opened up new directions which reinforced my confidence. It steered me to recognise my own agency and keep going."
These sessions have led to:
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Clarity and Direction: Artists have gained clarity on their projects and career paths, enabling them to proceed with confidence.
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Practical Support: Artists have received practical advice tailored to their specific needs, aiding their professional development.
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Emotional Support: The compassionate approach of these sessions has provided emotional support, helping artists manage challenges and stay motivated.
Axis Bursary Scheme
In November 2023, we launched the Axis Bursary Scheme, a new initiative aimed at providing financial support to our Professional Members. This scheme is accompanied by an exclusive community space for Professional member interaction and support, fostering a collaborative and nurturing environment.
Professional Members can apply for a £500 bursary, aimed at supporting their practice in areas such as research, development, and purchasing materials. Recipients are chosen through a random selection process every three months, with three members receiving £500 bursaries in each round. This approach aims to fairly distribute support among members.
Successful applicants are encouraged to share how they utilised their bursary within the community and participate in an online peer meet-up.
The Axis Bursary Scheme has already provided six bursaries, enabling artists to pursue new projects and enhance their practices. Bursary recipient Hannah Leighton-Boyce used her bursary to attend a bookbinding course, and emphasises the importance of such small amounts on artists by saying the bursary has "opened new doors for my practice".
These bursaries have had a tangible impact on the recipients, providing them with the resources they need to advance their artistic practices and share their progress with the community. By facilitating these opportunities, Axis continues to support the growth and development of contemporary visual artists.
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Trustees' report (continued) for the year ended 31 March 2024
Showcasing Artists Work
Our digital platform showcases and profiles the work of over 1,000 artists, making it a significant resource for contemporary visual arts in the UK. Artists featured on our platform are carefully selected through applications or nominations, highlighting the importance of situating their work alongside their peers. This approach fosters community, shared inspiration, and collective exposure.
The Axis platform goes beyond merely listing artists; it serves as a vital link between artists and art enthusiasts. Here, curators discover new talents, and art lovers find inspiration, ensuring that artists' work reaches a diverse and engaged audience. By presenting the work of over 1,000 artists, we have expanded the visibility of contemporary visual arts, leading to increased opportunities for artists to be discovered by curators, commissioners, and art enthusiasts.
This year, we have enhanced our platform to make exploring contemporary visual art an engaging journey of discovery. From community galleries to virtual showcases, we have created clear pathways for visitors to experience and interact with the work of our artists. Our efforts on social media, with regular posts of curated programmes like Five2Watch and Highlights, have become highly anticipated events, offering fresh perspectives and discoveries.
The impact of our showcase and curated programme has been significant. By sharing content across our social media channels, we have amplified the reach and influence of the showcased artists. This exposure has led to increased opportunities for artists, as their work is more likely to be discovered by curators, commissioners, and art enthusiasts. The results are inspiring, with more than 500 artists' work highlighted, demonstrating the breadth and depth of talent among our members.
Axis Graduate Programme
The Axis Graduate Programme is an innovative, artist-led professional development initiative tailored for thirdyear fine art students and recent graduates transitioning from academic study to the professional arts sector. Designed to empower emerging artists, the programme offers guidance, resources, and insights from experienced artists and art professionals, equipping participants with the tools and confidence needed to establish and sustain their practices.
In 2023, the Axis Graduate Programme provided a comprehensive framework to ease the transition into the professional art world. Our programme included a series of Pathway Talks, Development Talks, workshops, and mentoring sessions that collectively offered practical advice, career insights, and networking opportunities.
Pathway Talks: Featured insights from fine art graduates who have successfully navigated their postgraduate careers, including Kinnari Saraiya, Edd Carr, Charlotte Cullen, Rebecca Halliwell Sutton, Josh Johnson, and Ginny on Frederick.
Development Talks: Focused on essential skills for professional growth, covering a wide range of topics. These talks featured Leomi Sadler on illustration and contemporary art, Nicola Singh on performance and post-colonial feminism, Ayla Dmyterko on painting and eco-feminism, Roy Parker on eco-art, Ashley Holmes on sound installations, and Katrina Cowling on sculpture.
Workshops and Mentoring Sessions: Featuring Fundraising Workshop: Led by The Uncultured, Mentoring Sessions: Provided by Nicola Singh, Ayla Dmyterko, Claye Bowler, and Edd Carr, Zine/Artist Book Making Workshop: Led by Sam Hutchinson and Artist-Led Opportunity Intro: Hosted by Umbrella.
The six-month programme culminated with the PRAXIS Exhibition, hosted at Umbrella, an artist-led space within Axis' Vacant Space initiative at The Capitol Centre, Cardiff. This exhibition highlighted the exceptional talent of recent graduates in their inaugural exhibition since university, marking a significant milestone in their professional journeys. The exhibition featured the works of Iulia Hulea, Charis Copp, Yveline Burton, Sarah Grossey, Niamh O’Dobhain, Kristina Nenova, Hannah Henson, Esther Harbord, and Coralie Rebekah Braddock.
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Trustees' report (continued) for the year ended 31 March 2024
Vacant Space Initiative
The Vacant Space programme continues to make a significant impact by transforming unused commercial properties into vibrant hubs for creative activity. This initiative not only supports artists but also engages communities, making contemporary visual arts a part of everyday life.
In 2023, we activated 17 spaces across Cardiff, Middlesbrough, Hastings, Bournemouth, Barnsley, Bradford, Sunderland, Pontefract, and Guildford. These spaces have been utilised by artists, providing unique opportunities for development and showcasing their work.
Artist Paisley Randell Shillabeer from Cardiff Umbrella articulated the importance of support and space provided by Axis: “I think one of the best things about being in the building [Vacant Space] at the moment is that we've built such an incredible community of artists. I mean, it's just so wonderful to feel like there are people doing exciting things all around you and you're not isolated, and that can really help us when we're trying to move forward with the work that we're doing.“
Our Vacant Space initiative has also been instrumental in fostering community engagement. Thousands of people have participated in a wide range of creative and social activities hosted in these spaces, turning vacant properties into cultural destinations. The initiative has helped to build stronger connections between artists and local communities, promoting cultural appreciation and participation.
Member and Vacant Space Artist, Rey Hope from Dyddiau Du shared: “It came about originally wanting to have a space for a little sort of self-sustaining bookshelf and very quickly grew and grew, we were really lucky to be able to have access to this space and realising that there was a real gap for queer and neurodivergent communities.“
Key Impacts
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Enhanced Visibility for Artists: The Vacant Space initiative provided 200 artists with access to unique spaces to develop and showcase their work. This has significantly enhanced their visibility and career opportunities.
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Community Engagement: Thousands of people engaged in a wide range of creative and social activities hosted in these spaces. The initiative has fostered community engagement and cultural appreciation, turning vacant properties into cultural destinations.
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Revitalisation of Properties: Property owners have seen their vacant properties revitalised, contributing positively to the local area's appeal and cultural vibrancy.
Trustees' Visit to Cardiff
A notable highlight of the year was the visit by Axis trustees to Cardiff, where they explored the impact of the Vacant Space initiative first-hand. They visited several activated spaces and engaged with artists, gaining valuable insights into how access to these spaces has transformed artistic practices and enriched the community. During the visit, trustees were particularly moved by the personal stories shared by artists. One artist remarked, "Having access to a space through Axis has been a game-changer. It has allowed me to experiment and grow in ways I never thought possible. The support from Axis has been incredible."
The trustees' visit underscored the importance of the Vacant Space initiative in providing artists with the resources they need to thrive and in making contemporary art accessible to broader audiences.
Giving a Platform for the Artists' Voice
Axis supported the Aberdeen Summit, a pivotal event addressing the issue of artists' exploitation. Our role was to produce and publish a comprehensive publication, ensuring the vital discussions from the summit reached a wider audience.
Axis was honoured to publish "Artists' Exploitation," a collection of texts from the summit. This publication includes contributions from Dr Susan Jones, Ben Callaghan, Simon Poulter, and Lindsay Seers, with a summation by Dr John Wright.
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Trustees' report (continued) for the year ended 31 March 2024
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To amplify the discussion, we commissioned five new pieces of writing:
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The Price of Everything by Alistair Gentry
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Welcome to the Club? On Disability, Poverty, and Exclusion in the Arts by Tina Rogers
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We Can't Afford to Work for Love by Lauren McLaughlin
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On Mining by Adam York Gregory
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Barriers and Ethnic Representation by Sofia Barton
These pieces reflect diverse perspectives on exploitation, contributing to a broader understanding of the challenges artists face.
The publication has sparked essential conversations within our community, highlighting the need for systemic change. Axis remains dedicated to supporting initiatives that advocate for artists' rights, ensuring diverse voices are heard and valued.
Access Manifesto
In 2023, Axis took significant steps towards enhancing accessibility and inclusivity within the arts community by developing and launching the "Axis Access Manifesto." This initiative, commissioned from artist Lady Kitt, reflects our commitment to creating an environment where everyone can engage with and benefit from contemporary visual arts.
Lady Kitt, an artist renowned for her dedication to inclusivity, spearheaded the creation of the Access Manifesto. Guided by the principle "Assume Nothing, Ask Everything," the manifesto outlines key principles and guidelines aimed at fostering flexible, transparent, and welcoming practices across all our initiatives. It is a testament to our dedication to breaking down barriers and ensuring that art is accessible to all.
The Access Manifesto is a living document, continually evolving to meet the needs of our diverse community. We remain committed to upholding its principles and enhancing our practices to ensure that contemporary visual arts are truly for everyone.
Care Commitment
In 2023, Axis reaffirmed its dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment through the establishment of our Care Commitment. This initiative was developed in response to feedback from our community and collaborators, emphasising the importance of a compassionate and empathetic approach in all our interactions. It is designed to ensure that our working relationships are based on respect, transparency, and mutual support.
Our Care Commitment has been integrated into all aspects of our operations and is an evolving pledge, continually refined based on feedback and experiences.
Web Development and Digital Engagement
In 2023, Axis made significant progress in developing our new website, set to launch on 17 April 2024. This new digital platform is designed to better support artists and engage audiences, enhancing the overall experience and accessibility of contemporary visual arts.
Our efforts this year have focused on creating a platform that meets the needs of our members and the broader community. Key features of the new website include:
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Enhanced Accessibility and Usability: The new website will offer a more intuitive and user-friendly design, making it easier for artists to find and access the resources they need. This improved interface will help artists manage their profiles, share their work, and connect with other members more efficiently.
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Improved Discoverability: With advanced search and filter systems, users will be able to find artists, events, and resources quickly. This feature will increase the visibility of artists' work, allowing them to reach wider audiences and potential collaborators.
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Trustees' report (continued) for the year ended 31 March 2024
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Seamless Integration: The new single sign-on system will provide a smooth and streamlined login experience, enabling users to access both the website and the community platform effortlessly. This integration will make it easier for members to participate in discussions, access exclusive content, and stay updated on the latest events and opportunities.
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Enhanced Content Management: A robust content management system will ensure that the website remains dynamic and up-to-date, offering fresh and relevant content that reflects the latest developments in contemporary visual arts.
Benefits for Artists and Audiences
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Greater Visibility: Artists will benefit from enhanced exposure through improved search functionality and curated showcases.
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Resource Access: The platform will provide easy access to a wealth of resources, including funding opportunities, professional development tools, and collaborative projects.
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Community Engagement: Artists can connect with peers, share their work, and participate in community events, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment.
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Discover New Talent: Audiences will find it easier to discover and engage with a diverse range of artists and their work.
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Stay Informed: The website will offer up-to-date information on events, exhibitions, and other cultural activities, making it a go-to resource for contemporary visual arts enthusiasts.
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Interactive Experience: Enhanced features will allow audiences to interact with artists and their work, creating a more immersive and engaging experience.
Looking Ahead
As we look towards 2024 and beyond, Axis remains dedicated to supporting artists, engaging audiences, and fostering an inclusive, vibrant, and sustainable arts community. Building on our achievements, we will continue to empower artists through resources, mentorship, and visibility, ensuring they have the support needed to thrive.
Our commitment to inclusivity and sustainability will be furthered through ongoing initiatives, ensuring that our practices remain welcoming and environmentally conscious. The launch of our new website will enhance our digital presence, making it easier for audiences to discover and connect with contemporary visual arts.
We will increase our curated output, showcasing the diverse and innovative work of artists through more exhibitions, digital features, and social media engagement. By doing so, we aim to amplify artists' voices and make contemporary art more accessible to a wider audience.
We aim to strengthen community support by expanding networking events, peer support sessions, and professional development opportunities. This will foster a collaborative and supportive environment, enhancing the sense of community among our members.
Through these efforts, we remain steadfast in our mission to champion contemporary visual arts, making it accessible and engaging for all. We look forward to continuing this journey, guided by our values of inclusivity, sustainability, and support for artists.
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Trustees' report (continued) for the year ended 31 March 2024
Financial review
The net income for the year was £-23,109, including net income of £-23,109 on unrestricted funds and net income of £0 on restricted funds.
Reserves policy
The charity's free reserves, excluding fixed assets, at the year end were £227,465.
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Trustees' report (continued) for the year ended 31 March 2024
Statement of trustees' responsibilities
The trustees (who are also the directors for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Trustees report and the financial statements in accordance with the applicable law and UK Accounting Standards.
Company law requires the trustees to prepare financial accounts for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for the year. In preparing these financial statements, the trustees are required to:
select suitable accounting policies and apply them consistently;
observe the methods and principles in the Charities SORP;
make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
state whether applicable UK accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements;
prepare the accounts on a going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume that the charitable company will continue in operation.
The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and to enable them to ensure that the financial accounts comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charity and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.
This report has been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities (Charities SORP (FRS102)), and in accordance with the special provisions of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.
Approved by the board of trustees on 6/12/2024
Lisa Stansbie (Trustee)
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Independent examiner's report to the trustees of Axis Web
I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the charitable company for the year ended 31 March 2024, which are set out on pages 14 to 21.
Responsibilities and basis of report
As the charity's trustees of the charitable company (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 ('the 2006 Act').
Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the charitable company are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity's accounts as carried out under section 145 of the Charities Act ('the 2011 Act'). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under section 145(5)(b) of the 2011 Act.
Independent examiner's statement
Since the charitable company's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a fellow of a body listed in section 145 of the 2011 Act.
I confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a fellow of ACIE which is one of the listed bodies.
I have completed my examination. I confirm that no material matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe that in any material respect:
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1 accounting records were not kept in respect of the company as required by section 386 of the 2006 Act; or 2 the accounts do not accord with those records; or
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3 the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a 'true and fair view' which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or
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4 the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities [applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102)].
I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
Simon Bostrom FCIE
16/12/2024
West Yorkshire Community Accountancy Service CIO
Stringer House 34 Lupton Street Leeds LS10 2QW
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Statement of Financial Activities
(including summary income and expenditure account) for the year ended 31 March 2024
| Notes 2024 Unrestricted funds £ Income from: Grants and donations (2) 119,696 Members subscriptions 217,396 Digital programme income 17,740 Income from group undertakings 1,669 Bank interest 5,449 Total income 361,950 Expenditure on: Salaries NI and pensions (3) 140,439 Vacant spaces costs 39,016 Insurance scheme for members 35,723 Artists fees, commissions and projects 16,407 Artists bursaries 14,532 Marketing 12,145 Platform and programme 98,562 General admin expenses 451 Charity insurance 1,625 Travel and subsistence 838 Book keeping 1,295 Bank / fincance charges 12,020 Computer expenses - Governance costs 2,744 Legal and professional 7,133 Independent examination 1,050 Depreciation 655 Staff development 424 Total expenditure 385,059 Net income / (expenditure) (23,109) Fund balances brought forward 250,930 Fund balances carried forward (4) 227,821 |
2024 Restricted funds £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - |
2024 Total funds £ 119,696 217,396 17,740 1,669 5,449 361,950 140,439 39,016 35,723 16,407 14,532 12,145 98,562 451 1,625 838 1,295 12,020 - 2,744 7,133 1,050 655 424 385,059 (23,109) 250,930 227,821 |
2023 Total funds £ 265,453 177,225 8,178 158 1,645 452,659 121,702 103,839 27,559 70,266 - 15,250 50,094 515 1,562 206 1,162 9,186 183 1,500 1,035 1,050 993 - 406,102 46,557 204,373 250,930 |
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All incoming resources and resources expended derive from continuing activities.
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Balance sheet
| as at 31 March 2024 2024 Unrestricted £ Fixed assets Tangible assets (5) 355 Investments (6) 1 Total fixed assets 356 Current assets Debtors and prepayments (7) 2,927 Cash at bank and in hand (8) 380,175 Total current assets 383,102 Current liabilities: amounts falling due within one year Creditors and accruals (9) 155,637 Total current liabilities 155,637 Net current assets / (liabilities) 227,465 Net assets 227,821 Funds Unrestricted funds 227,821 Restricted funds - Total funds 227,821 |
2024 Restricted £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - |
2024 Total £ 355 1 356 2,927 380,175 383,102 155,637 155,637 227,465 227,821 227,821 - 227,821 |
2023 Total £ 1,010 1 1,011 7,530 408,311 415,841 165,922 165,922 249,919 250,930 250,930 - 250,930 |
|---|---|---|---|
For the year ending 31 March 2024 the charitable company was entitled to exemption from audit under section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies.
The members have not required the charitable company to obtain an audit of its accounts for the year in question in accordance with section 476. The trustees (who are also the directors for the purposes of company law) acknowledge their responsibilities for complying with the requirements of the Act with respect to accounting records and the preparation of accounts.
These accounts have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to companies subject to the small companies’ regime and with FRS 102 (effective January 2019).
The financial statements were approved by the board of trustees on 6/12/2024
Lisa Stansbie (Trustee)
15
Axis Web
Notes to the accounts
for the year ended 31 March 2024
1 Accounting policies
Basis of accounting
These accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention with items recognised at cost or transaction value unless otherwise stated in the relevant note(s) to these accounts. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (effective 1 January 2019) and with the Charities Act 2011.
The charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102. There has been no change to the accounting policies since last year.
No changes have been made to the accounts for previous years.
Going concern
The trustees are satisfied that there are no material uncertainties about the charity's ability to continue.
Incoming resources
All incoming resources are included in the Statement of Financial Activities (SOFA) when the charity becomes entitled to the resources, if it is more likely than not that the trustees will receive the resources and the monetary value can be measured with sufficient reliability.
Grants and donations
Grants and donations are only included in the SOFA when the charity has unconditional entitlement to the resources.
Where grants are related to performance and specific deliverables, they are accounted for as the charity earns the right to consideration by its performance.
Donated assets, facilities or services are valued at their estimated value to the charity. This is the price that the charity estimates it would pay in the open market for equivalent items; or services and facilities of equivalent utility to the charity.
Investments
Investments are stated at market value at the balance sheet date. The SOFA includes the net gains and losses arising on revaluations and disposals throughout the year.
Expenditure and liabilities
Expenditure is recognised on an accrual basis as a liability is incurred. Liabilities are recognised where it is more likely than not that there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to pay out the resources and the amount of the obligation can be measured with reasonable certainty.
Taxation
As a charity the organisation benefits from rates relief and is generally exempt from income tax and capital gains tax but not from VAT. Irrecoverable VAT is included in the cost of those items to which it relates.
16
Axis Web
Notes to the accounts
for the year ended 31 March 2024
1 Accounting policies continued
Tangible fixed assets
Tangible fixed assets costing more than £500 are capitalised and included at cost including any incidental expenses of acquisition. Gifted assets are shown at the value to the charity on receipt. Depreciation is provided on all tangible fixed assets at rates calculated to write off the cost on a straight line basis over their expected useful economic lives as follows: Fixtures, fittings and equipment: over 3 years
Pensions
The charity operates a defined contribution scheme for the benefit of its employees. The costs of contributions are recognised in the year they are payable.
Fund accounting
Unrestricted funds are available for use at the discretion of the trustees in furtherance of the general objectives of the charity.
Restricted funds are subjected to restrictions on their expenditure imposed by the donor or through the terms of an appeal.
Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the accounts.
17
Axis Web
Notes to the accounts continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
| 2 Grants and donations Donations in relation to space for artists Arts Council England 3 Staff costs and numbers Gross salaries Social security costs Employment allowance Work from home allowances Pensions |
2024 Unrestricted funds £ 119,696 - 119,696 |
2024 Restricted funds £ - - - |
2024 Total funds £ 119,696 - 119,696 2024 £ 121,416 10,479 (5,000) 1,373 12,171 140,439 |
2023 Total funds £ 205,731 59,722 265,453 2023 £ 109,851 8,873 (5,000) - 7,978 121,702 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
The average number of employees during the year was 5, being an average of 4.4 full time equivalent (2023: 5, 4.1 FTE). There were no employees with emoluments above £60,000.
| **5 ** | Defined contribution pension scheme Costs of the scheme to the charity for the year Amount of any contributions outstanding at the year end Tangible assets Cost At 1 April 2023 Additions At 31 March 2024 Depreciation At 1 April 2023 Charge for year At 31 March 2024 Net book value At 31 March 2024 At 31 March 2023 |
2024 £ 12,171 1,406 £ 45,550 - 45,550 44,540 655 45,195 355 1,010 Fixtures, fittings & equipment |
2023 £ 7,978 1,153 Total £ 45,550 - 45,550 44,540 655 45,195 355 1,010 |
|---|---|---|---|
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Axis Web
Notes to the accounts continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
| 6 Fixed assets investments Balance b/f Additions (Disposals) Total 7 Debtors and prepayments Amounts owed by subsidiary company Prepayments Accrued income Other debtors 8 Cash at bank and in hand Cash at bank Cash in hand 9 Creditors and accruals Creditors Memberships received in advance Other fees received in advance Accruals Taxation and social security Other creditors |
2024 Shares in subsidiary £ 1 - - 1 2024 £ 1,827 - 1,000 100 2,927 2024 £ 380,175 - 380,175 2024 £ 11,998 84,458 - 48,085 9,293 1,803 155,637 |
2023 Shares in subsidiary £ 1 - - 1 2023 £ 158 300 6,972 100 7,530 2023 £ 408,311 - 408,311 2023 £ 2,775 75,801 8,000 66,884 10,868 1,594 165,922 |
|---|---|---|
10 Related party transactions
Trustee expenses
During the year 5 trustees were paid a total of £931 in respect of travel and accommodation.
| Trustee remuneration and benefits Holly Slingsby Allowance for trustee board meeting attendance Fiona Grady Allowance for trustee board meeting attendance Name of trustee or related party Relationship to charity Description of transaction |
2024 £ 600 800 1,400 |
2023 £ 500 800 1,300 |
|---|---|---|
Remuneration and benefits received by key management personnel
The total employee benefits received by key management personnel were £46,004.
19
Axis Web
Notes to the accounts continued
for the year ended 31 March 2024
10 Other related party transactions
At the balance sheet date the Charity was owed £1,827 (2023: £158) by Axis Web Development Limited (a wholly owned subsidiary company) which is included within debtors. Admin recharges to the subsidiary during the year were £300 (2023: £nil).
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Axis Web
Statement of Financial Activities including comparatives for all funds (including summary income and expenditure account) for the year ended 31 March 2024
| 2024 2023 Unrestricted Unrestricted funds funds £ £ Income Grants and donations 119,696 205,731 Members subscriptions 217,396 177,225 Digital programme income 17,740 8,178 Income from group undertakings 1,669 158 Bank interest 5,449 1,645 Total income 361,950 392,937 Expenditure Salaries NI and pensions 140,439 121,702 Vacant spaces costs 39,016 103,839 Insurance scheme for members 35,723 27,559 Artists fees, commissions and projects 16,407 28,675 Artists bursaries 14,532 - Marketing 12,145 15,250 Platform and programme 98,562 31,963 General admin expenses 451 515 Charity insurance 1,625 1,562 Travel and subsistence 838 206 Book keeping 1,295 1,162 Bank / fincance charges 12,020 9,186 Computer expenses - 183 Governance costs 2,744 1,500 Legal and professional 7,133 1,035 Independent examination 1,050 1,050 Depreciation 655 993 Staff development 424 - Total expenditure 385,059 346,380 Net income / (expenditure) (23,109) 46,557 Fund balances brought forward 250,930 204,373 Fund balances carried forward 227,821 250,930 |
2024 Restricted funds £ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - |
2023 Restricted funds £ 59,722 - - - - 59,722 - - - 41,591 - - 18,131 - - - - - - - - - - - 59,722 - - - |
2024 Total funds £ 119,696 217,396 17,740 1,669 5,449 361,950 140,439 39,016 35,723 16,407 14,532 12,145 98,562 451 1,625 838 1,295 12,020 - 2,744 7,133 1,050 655 424 385,059 (23,109) 250,930 227,821 |
2023 Total funds £ 265,453 177,225 8,178 158 1,645 452,659 121,702 103,839 27,559 70,266 - 15,250 50,094 515 1,562 206 1,162 9,186 183 1,500 1,035 1,050 993 - 406,102 46,557 204,373 250,930 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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