Over the years I’ve gone from occasional coffee drinker and art admirer to art exhibitor. From someone whose anxiety and dyslexia made me too scared to fill in application forms, to getting funding through the ‘a space arts’ Talent Development programme – and a big part of this was exhibiting my work in The Art House.

It has helped me link into the artistic network in the city, and given me the confidence to exhibit as a professional – everything from those pesky forms to how to present my work. With no other full-time gallery for local artists in Southampton, The Art House fills an essential niche – without it, there would be huge hole in our creative community.

Not only that, but it’s a place where the staff understand stories like mine, and the difficulties we face. It’s quirky, not part of the Identikit High Street, unique and irreplaceable. It’s part of the soul of Southampton. 

So I say, please save our Art House – I’m so grateful and thankful it exists, and it has to stay.

Donate here: https://thearthousesouthampton.org/donate/