TESTIMONIALS
To whom it may concern:
The upstairs gallery is an asset to the arts.
There are very few places in Suffolk that local artists, students, societies, associationsetc. can permanently arrange and afford to exhibit their work, The upstairs gallery is the only venue that actively supports local artists via its terms and conditions, giving everyone the opportunity to take part.
The upstairs gallery through Michelle's tireless energy is a hub for the visual arts in the area, for artists and arts lovers alike. Michelle works hard actively promoting the gallery to the public in Suffolk and beyond, bringing many people to Beccles who wouldn't otherwise of come.
It is a gallery run for the artist community and for those who admire artwork. It displays an eclectic mix of quality arts and crafts, its reputation spreading well beyond Suffolk.
I hope it will be able to continue to grow, supplying an affordable firm foundation for all.
Regards
Jill Hodgson
exhibtion Co-ordinator Suffolk Open Studios
To whom it may concern:
I write to confirm that the Upstairs Gallery in Beccles is a key organisation in community arts development both locally and regionally.
As Waveney District Council's Arts and Heritage Service manager I have supported and worked with this organisation -debating and developing diverse community participation and education projects and initiatives - since before the gallery actually opened. They have since been involved with 'national arts for health' programmes.
In April 2008 this gallery was the leading Beccles organisation participating in the Waveney revels! - a month longcommunity arts promotional and participation programme developed and promoted by WDC, via this Arts and Heritage service. They developed astoundingly laudable and successful gallery opportunities for school pupils and other young local artists - a rare and much needed scheme.
The entire gallery remit has been created to aid and develop community artists from this area - providing opportunities
to promote their work at economic rates vastly below normal market commission percentages.
Ypours faithfully
Andrew Kitchen
Arts & heritage Service Manager
Waveney District Council.
To Whom it may concern:
My name is Rebecca Ollett and I am currently a student at westminster university, As a student, I have found it difficult to find both the confidence and venues to sell my work through, but thankfully, on having approached The Upstairs gallery, Michelle has helped me on both these counts. I now volunteer regularly at the gallery, which has enabled me to build confidence with customers and clients: I have learnt new skills which will aid me on my long journey to become an established professional artist.
I can wholly vouch that The Upstairs Gallery is a necessary part of the Beccles Community and has given a vast cross section of artists support. Clients come from all over the UK as Michelle has a media list that is put acroos to students, artists, the arts press, media and worldwide galleries.
The gallery has work placement forms in place for students, all the correct insurances for public and employee liability and this has helped me with the Westminster programmes.
I know that the Upstairs Gallery works for little financial reward, but has become a hub of the communities due to the immense involvements with all projects.
I do hope the Art gallery will continue, as it is sorely needed by students in in Schools and colleges across the UK, and for those living in ourarea.
Yours faithfully
Rebecca Ollett