Foundation Foundation

Foundation Foundation is a UK-registered charity (Charity Commission reg. 1180372), established as a company limited by guarantee to enhance public understanding, enjoyment, and appreciation of the visual arts. Governed by a board of prominent trustees including Sir Antony Gormley, Lady Vicken Gormley, Marco Compagnoni, Richard Calvocoressi, and Laura Stevenson, it sets strategic direction through majority vote while emphasizing artistic excellence, public education, accessibility, and fostering creativity. Its distinctive approach prioritizes targeted support for art galleries and cultural organizations driving educational impact and audience engagement in contemporary and historical visual art.

The foundation funds project-based initiatives such as exhibitions, educational programs, and outreach efforts that broaden public access to visual arts, exclusively targeting UK-based art institutions and collaborations with experienced cultural partners. It backs activities demonstrating clear educational value and community engagement, aligning with its mission to advance appreciation of creativity through strategic interventions.

Eligible applicants are UK-registered charities, particularly medium-to-large established art galleries with proven track records in visual arts education; there are no strict income thresholds but a preference for organizations of substantive scale. Funding is invitation-only, with no unsolicited applications or public process—partners are selected via trustee networks. Trustee meetings occur quarterly for decisions, with typical grants ranging from £10,000 to £50,000, occasionally larger for major projects. It excludes core costs, capital projects, emergency relief, and any causes outside visual arts education, setting it apart through its expert-led governance and unwavering thematic focus on high-impact public art engagement.