Pyramid, a Leeds-based arts organisation that has supported people with learning disabilities and autism for more than 35 years, has launched a new crowdfunding campaign to secure its long-term future. The group faces significant financial pressures from funding cuts and rising costs.
Campaign aims to raise £20,000
The organisation hopes to raise £20,000 to protect its weekly creative workshops and dedicated support for nearly 60 members each year. Funds will also help develop a range of retail products featuring artwork created by the group.
Pyramid grew from a small group at the former Meanwood Park Hospital and now delivers more than 1,500 hours of workshops annually. Members work alongside professional artists to create unique artwork.
Member testimonial
Alfie, who has a learning disability, has travelled from North Yorkshire to attend the accessible studio space for more than six years. He said: "I love coming to Pyramid as it is a place where people listen to my ideas and help me develop. I have learnt lots of new things at Pyramid and it was a dream come true to work on projects with a professional film maker. Pyramid has given me so many opportunities to make art and advocate for myself."
Trustee highlights critical moment
Mindy Goose, trustee at Pyramid, said: "Pyramid is incredibly unique in the support we offer artists like Alfie. Without us, many people with learning disabilities and autism in Yorkshire wouldn’t be able to develop the skills and confidence they need to go on to become working artists." She added: "We know our work makes a real difference to our members and to the cultural life of the region. But like many arts organisations, we are facing significant financial pressures that have brought us to this critical moment. Without additional support, we will have to make difficult decisions about our future programme."
Goose continued: "Our members want to make big change through big art to help challenge perceptions and inspire change for many years to come. We hope our community in Leeds and beyond will stand with us by supporting our crowdfunder and helping secure Pyramid’s future."
Early support and next steps
More than 60 supporters have already backed the campaign since it launched, raising 15 per cent of the total target. Organisers hope the local community will continue to support the group so it can deliver life-changing opportunities for years to come.
To find out more or to make a donation, visit the Pyramid crowdfunder page.
