Trustees Report Jan – Dec 2020
We were required to move units as required by new owners of the building. The new landlords recognise our value to the business complex in terms of our artistic activity and the clients that we attract. The ground floor workspace is much more visible and accessible to the public. As a result, access for the elderly and those with physical disabilities has improved. We are a strong diverse community, valued by our landlords and neighbours within the business centre.
Covid
During lockdowns we supported the Artichoke artists with regular communication to keep their spirits up. We recognise our importance for the individual creative and emotional well-being of our members. It is good that all have been back during recent months.
Improvements to the workshop were made by adding plastic screening, increased distancing, and more regular cleaning. Government guidelines were followed. Our artists felt safe knowing that correct measures were in place. It was easier to maintain a fresh air flow through our new workspace as we have two outside doors ensuring a through draught.
Many of the regular artists in the Artichoke community continued to support us financially during this difficult period if they could. The Charity was successful in gaining a Lambeth Council rates grant and a Covid recovery grant from The Arts Council. This was valuable during the statutory lockdown months, ensuring we could survive financially when the workshop income bottomed out.
2020 was a challenging year owing to the Covid 19 pandemic and the change of ownership of the Shakespeare Business Centre. Aside from the Statutory Lockdown months, Artichoke was able to face these challenges and supply access and services to the artists it continues to support.
The Charity was in a sound financial position moving into 2021.
Lelie J Sequeira and Co were again appointed accountants.