A locally connected and internationally recognised contemporary art gallery in the heart of Southampton has been awarded £100,000 from the Barker-Mill Foundation (BMF).
John Hansard Gallery, part of the University of Southampton, has been awarded the donation from the BMF over three years to fund a series of pioneering commissions for the Digital Array, a new media wall in the atrium at John Hansard Gallery.
Ten artists will be invited to create new film and video artworks for the Digital Array from 2019-2021, which will be visible from both inside and outside of the Gallery to those passing through Guildhall Square.
Woodrow Kernohan, Director, John Hansard Gallery, said: “Support from the Barker-Mill Foundation will ensure these commissions will create unique opportunities for a mix of leading, emerging and early career artists to produce new and exciting film, video and digital works that are focused in and around Southampton.
“The Barker-Mill Film and Video Commissions will result in a dynamic and engaging programme that showcases experimental artists’ film and video to people passing by or visiting the Gallery to enjoy.”
The Barker-Mill Foundation is long-term supporter and champion of Southampton’s cultural scene, having made previous donations towards the creation of the new arts complex in Guildhall Square.
Tim Jobling, Trustee at the Barker-Mill Foundation said: “I’m really excited to see the artists’ work on display at the Gallery and am delighted that we have been able to provide ongoing support for the cultural hub of the city by enabling this project to go ahead.”
John Hansard Gallery relocated from its historic home on Highfield campus to its new purpose-built home in Southampton’s Cultural Quarter last year. The move has provided the Gallery with triple the amount of space for programming and to attract new, diverse and expanded audiences.