Social ARTery created an ethical online space for artists and communities to connect during Covid-19. Through the Pioneers Programme, 20 artists co-designed the platform, shaping new models of digital care, collaboration and mutual support that continue today.
Supporting Artists
Hardship Fund for Artists 2020
Axis was one of the first and only arts organisations to offer direct financial support to artists during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Hardship Fund for Artists distributed £15,000 in support bursaries from Axis’s own reserves, demonstrating a continued commitment to care, community and artistic resilience.
Supporting Artists Through Crisis
When the Covid-19 pandemic hit in 2020, artists across the UK faced cancelled work, lost income, and deep uncertainty. While many arts organisations closed and furloughed staff, Axis continued to operate, adapting quickly to support artists and members through one of the most challenging periods in recent history.
Direct Financial Support
In March 2020, Axis created a Hardship Fund, drawing £15,000 from our own reserves to provide immediate, no-strings support bursaries to members facing financial hardship, including those unable to work, on low income, disabled, or with caring responsibilities.
Across fifteen rounds between March 2020 and March 2021, we supported 150 artists, each receiving a £100 bursary.
Awards were made by random selection to ensure fairness and equality of access.
- 150 artists supported
- £15,000 distributed directly
- 3,000 submissions received
The overwhelming number of submissions demonstrated the urgent need to support individual artists and the lack of safety nets across the sector. Axis stepped forward to do what we could, one of the first and only arts organisations to offer direct financial support to artists at that time.
Extending Care
Alongside the fund, we offered 6 month membership breaks to any member who asked, including all Hardship Fund recipients. We also expanded online resources, content, and community activity to help artists stay connected, visible and creative throughout lockdown.
“The Axis fund has allowed me to continue my practice while carrying out caring duties during a time of stress and worry.”
“It is reassuring to see Axis taking real effort to support artists facing hardship right now.”
“Thank you for the restorative help and for having faith and value in artists. It feels good to be supported by your arms of this powerful artistic body.”
Legacy and Learning
The Hardship Fund revealed both the fragility and resilience of the artist community. It strengthened our resolve to prioritise artists’ wellbeing and sustainability in all future work.
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Axis is an artist-led charity supporting contemporary visual artists with resources, connection, and visibility.