1.6 How to Fund it

Funding for public art projects can come from a range of sources, often with a mix of funds from the public and private sector - it is rare to fund a project through a single source. Often the type and size of project that is developed will be dependent on the cost implications, so it is important to establish what funding support is available at an early stage. Questions to ask include:

  • Are there existing grant funding opportunities available for your type of project - local or national?
  • Can you add 'elements' that genuinely 'fit' your project that may allow you to apply for other associated funding (eg. education, social inclusion, etc)?
  • Can you partner another project to combine resources?
  • Are there conditions or time limits related to accessing funding?
  • Can the project be part of a percentage for art element of a larger construction cost?
  • Can the artworks be part funded through the use of an existing materials budget as part of a larger development?
  • Can you create a series of fund raising events, or employ a fundraiser?
  • Are there alternative sources of 'in kind' support for the project?

 

Funding Bodies and Sources

Aberdeen City Council currently has two funding streams which could be applicable for public art projects, the Public Art Aberdeen Fund and the Cultural Grants.Which stream of funding you applied for would depend on the nature of your proposed project as each has their own particular criteria. You can contact either funding streams main contact for advice on which would be the more relevant funding source.

Public Art Fund

Aberdeen Cultural Grants

 

National Funding

Creative Scotland

Big Lottery Fund programmes: Community Space Scotland & Awards For All

 

Trusts

Clore Duffield Foundation

Esmee Fairbairn Foundation

Paul Hamlyn Foundation

Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation

Foyle Foundation

Elephant Trust

Rayne Foundation

Welcome Trust