Southbank Bristol Arts

Imagine, if you will, a warm sunny Saturday in May (I know, but stay with me) and you're at a loose end. The birds are singing, the trees look great, and there's a lovely light breeze. Perfect for a walk. You think to yourself, “I'd like to go out. Hey, I'll go to the SBA Arts Trail!"

You reach for the Pigeon, and scour through it. No Arts Trail mentioned here. Same in Venue. Where has the Arts Trail gone? Is it not happening this year? Oh no! What happened?

Well don't worry, the SBA Arts Trail is happening this year. On the 10th and 11th May 2008 the Trail will be back in its usual glory. With 48 venues and 150 artists, it promises to be as fresh and fun as ever.

But what if it was cancelled? How would you feel if your local trail got cancelled due to lack of interest? Or lack of funds? Or because not enough people were prepared to get involved and organise it?

That sad scenario might come true. This year we are running the Trail on a much reduced budget due to funding cuts. Last year we received some money from the local Festival Fund set up by Bristol City Council. It's not a lot of money, but it does allow us to ensure that the trail can continue and provide a whole range of fun activities. This year because of cutbacks we have not been successful in our bid. Next year? Who knows? It remains to be seen if we can afford to put on a trail next year.

We are also losing several people from the steering group this year. These people have put in three or four years of work and now rightly feel that it is time for others to step forward.

How can you help?

You can help us in many ways. The first and most obvious is to come and enjoy the Arts Trail on the 10th and 11th May 2008. Nothing shows us that you care more than just turning up and coming round the Trail. It makes it all worthwhile! If you see a collection bucket, chuck in a few pence - it all helps.

The second way is to come along and help out with the organisation. We have Steering Group meetings on the first Wednesday of every month. The next one is on the 2nd April 2008 at 7.30pm at the Southville Centre (others will be listed on the calendar on the web site). Come along and join in! We are looking for people will all kinds of skills, from administration to fundraising to marketers. It's a great way to meet new people in your area and it is actually quite good fun too.

If you run a business in the area, why not consider giving a donation? As a sponsor you can get your logo on our web site and possibly in the printed brochure. No matter how small a donation it usually makes a big difference to us.

If you are an artist, get involved and take part in the Trail. It’s a good way to get your art seen by lots of people. If you are taking part this year, have you picked up your flag? Have you told all your friends about the SBA Arts Trail? Why not make it a weekend that you invite friends around? It can be a fun time!

Any help you can give is very welcome, whether it be getting involved in the organisation or getting yourself and friends into the Arts Trail. It’s your Trail, too, so please get involved!