For Better Together #7 we were joined by Jon Opie, Head of Artist Support at Acme.
Acme has supported artists since 1972 with affordable studios, work/live space and a programme of residencies and awards. In 2022, in partnership with University College London, Acme published research Understanding the Value of Artist Studios, collating detailed literature review and in-depth interviews with 21 artists in their Childers Street studio building (now renamed the Acme Propeller Factory). This research provided insights into studios' value to artists, and to the wider creative economy of the city.
This year, Acme launched a campaign to raise the money to purchase the Acme Propeller Factory and have added new research to strategically articulate the creative, social, and economic value of the studios locally and nationally.
Using this body of work as an example, Jon's presentation drew learnings on how to make the case for artist studios to key arts and non-arts stakeholders.
About Jon Opie
Jon Opie works for Acme, a charity based in London providing affordable studios, work/lives and a programme of residencies and awards. As its Head of Artist Support since 2023, he oversees its relationships with over 800 artists annually, enabling them to sustain their studio practices and careers. He is also a Trustee of Cardboard Citizens (2016-), which makes work with and for people who experience homelessness, inequity, and poverty.
Previously he was Jerwood Arts' Deputy Director (2011-23), overseeing grant making to support and create professional and creative development opportunities for early career artists.
Event Details
Thursday 19 September, 1-2pm
Online via Zoom
Photo credit: View from an Acme Propeller Factory Studio, June 2024 © Acme.