Gateshead, UK – Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art has received a transformative donation from North East music legend Sting, marking the launch of its ambitious £10 million Endowment Fund campaign. The announcement comes as the celebrated riverside gallery celebrates a milestone of 10 million visitors since opening.
Born in Wallsend, Sting’s generous contribution underscores his commitment to sustaining free access to arts and culture in a region where economic challenges persist. As the most visited free cultural venue in the Northeast, Baltic plays a vital role in nurturing creativity, engaging over 183,000 children and young people annually through dynamic programmes that build confidence, skills, and aspiration.
The Endowment Fund will ensure Baltic’s future as a beacon of artistic innovation, safeguarding free entry to exhibitions, learning initiatives, and community projects for generations to come. Sting will further champion the cause with an exclusive performance and Q&A at Baltic’s flagship Fundraising Gala on 30 October 2025, joining philanthropists and arts patrons for an evening of advocacy and celebration.
Sting said, “This is about legacy. The culture of the Northeast shaped me, and I want to repay that debt. Supporting the Baltic means ensuring young people here can dream without limits. I hope my gift inspires others to contribute—because creativity shouldn’t be a privilege.”
The Gala will also feature a high-profile auction of works donated by Damien Hirst, Anish Kapoor, and Cornelia Parker. At the same time, South Tyneside’s Nadine Shah opens the evening with an exceptional performance.
Sarah Munro, Baltic’s Director, added: “Sting’s generosity is a game-changer. This Fund secures our ability to platform artists, inspire communities, and ignite young imaginations long into the future.”
Kirsty Lang, Chair of Trustees, highlighted the North East’s inventive spirit: “From locomotives to light bulbs, this region has always pushed boundaries. With this Endowment, we’ll keep that flame alive for the next generation.”
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness praised the initiative: “Cultural spaces like Baltic are essential in helping our children dream bigger. This Fund, alongside our affordable travel schemes, ensures creativity remains within everyone’s reach.”
Baltic’s Endowment Fund represents a bold step in preserving the North East’s cultural vitality, with Sting’s backing setting the stage for a landmark campaign.
Photo: Sting Photo: Eric Ryan Anderson
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