Elephant Trust

Background

The Elephant Trust was created in 1975 by Roland Penrose and Lee Miller with a view to developing and improving the knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the fine arts in the United Kingdom.

The Elephant Trust also administers three other trusts:

• The George Melhuish Bequest.
• The Shelagh Wakely Bequest.
• The Joanna Drew Travel Bursary which is offered each summer to a curator needing to travel to further experience or studies.

Objectives of Fund

The Trust aims to make it possible for artists and those presenting their work to undertake and complete projects when frustrated by lack of funds. It is committed to helping artists and art institutions and galleries that depart from the routine and signal new, distinct and imaginative sets of possibilities.

Value Notes

Grants are usually between £2,000 and £5,000, but some larger grants may be awarded.

Match Funding Restrictions

Match funding is not required.

Who Can Apply

Funding priority is given to artists in the fine arts and small organisations and galleries within the UK.

Successful applicants should leave a minimum of two years before reapplying for help with a new project.

Location

UK

Restrictions

The following are not eligible for funding:

• Arts festivals.
• Group exhibitions.
• Charities organising community projects.
• Students.
• Educational or other studies.
• Residencies or research.
• Symposia or conferences.
• Theatres.
• Catalogues.
• Projects taking place outside the UK.

Eligible Expenditure

The Trustees' main objective is to support new work.

Applicants should submit well-argued, imaginative proposals for making or producing new work or exhibitions.

How To Apply

There are normally four rounds each year. The next round is open for applications 30 July to 20 October 2024 (midnight).

All applications should be submitted using the online application portal on the Trust's website. Email applications are not accepted.

Groups that have not heard within six weeks of the application deadline can assume that their application has not been successful.

Contact The Elephant Trust for further information.