The Jerwood Foundation, a stalwart supporter of the arts since 1977, has confirmed the merger with Jerwood Charity (Jerwood Arts), set to come into effect on January 1, 2024.
Fulfilling the vision of John Jerwood’s original philanthropy, the unified entity now outlines its funding plans, making up to £2 million in grants available annually. The streamlined application process, detailed on the Jerwood Foundation website [https://jerwood.org/funding/], welcomes applications from diverse arts organizations. The inaugural round of grants is slated for April 2024, with a deadline for submissions on March 1, 2024.
Projects currently backed by Jerwood include the Glyndebourne Jerwood Pit Perfect scheme, the Jerwood/Photoworks Awards 5 scheduled for 2025 at Somerset House, and initiatives like the Jerwood Assistant Director Scheme at the Young Vic and Persona Arts for their production of The Flying Dutchman in Birmingham.
Rupert Tyler, formerly Chairman of Jerwood Charity, assumes the role of Chairman for the consolidated Jerwood boards. Lara Wardle, Executive Director of Jerwood Foundation, will spearhead organizational leadership. Alan Grieve CBE, Chairman of Jerwood Foundation for the past 30 years, transitions to Trustee and Chairman Emeritus.
This merger aims to create a forward-looking charitable foundation, adapting to the contemporary political, social, and financial landscape, ensuring sustainability and maximizing impact for beneficiaries.
Rupert Tyler, Chairman of Jerwood Foundation, expressed his delight at the opportunity, stating, “I’m looking forward to being able to increase support directly to our excellent and thriving creative and cultural sector.”
Lara Wardle, Executive Director Jerwood Foundation, emphasized the hope that the new streamlined application process would facilitate effective fund distribution, aligning with John Jerwood’s vision to support excellence and emerging talent in the UK.
Alan Grieve CBE, Chairman Emeritus, noted that the merged Jerwood charities positioned the organization at the forefront, aiming to sustainably support and nurture the arts and crafts for public benefit.
About Jerwood Foundation Established in 1977 by Alan Grieve for John Jerwood, the Jerwood Foundation has donated over £110 million to support arts and crafts in the UK. The merger with Jerwood Charity seeks to streamline efforts and increase impact in the arts sector, aligning with the changing demands of the 21st century.
Jerwood Arts (Jerwood Charity) has dedicated itself to supporting outstanding UK artists, curators, and producers. The family of Jerwood organizations includes Jerwood Space in Southwark, London, and Jerwood Collection, all contributing to the shared purpose of maintaining imagination, relevance, and enjoyment in the arts.
Shunning bureaucracy and red tape, Jerwood has carved its own style of patronage, characterized by its private, opportunistic, and entrepreneurial approach.
Top Photo: Silvia Rosi, Self Portrait as my Father, 2020. Detail. Jerwood/Photoworks Awards 3 supported by Jerwood Arts and Photoworks © Anna Arca