The Fish Factory in Penryn has announced that they have started a fundraiser to help provide more community events but also to keep the space open after a tough period.

The Fish Factory began in 2011 because of a need in our community for affordable workspaces and opportunities to display artwork, test ideas and come together as a creative community.

The space is still used regularly the Fish Factory say they are working out how they can change and grow with these key ideas in mind. However - in the short term they need your help to lift them out of this difficult situation.

Curator and Residency Co-Ordinator Camilia Stacey said: "We're sad To say that the last six months have been some of the most difficult in the Fish Factory's history. Having survived the pandemic lockdowns thanks to various emergency grants, from the government & Arts Council, and generous donations from our community we emerged with a plan to get back to our self-sufficient independent, and DIY ways.

"Unfortunately, the world we emerged into has changed a lot and for many reasons, we now find ourselves in quite a financial predicament. Our last round of Arts Council funding ended in January 2022 and since then we have put on some world-class events and continue to offer our support for local and international artists through our gallery space and residency programme.

"Various factors such as new venues opening during lockdown, the ongoing effects of Brexit and Covid on international travel and student activities, rising bills and our geographical location outside of Falmouth have made these much more challenging than pre-2020 leading to us now having to carefully consider how we operate in the future. 

"While we are in the long process of writing applications for further funding we do value our independence and wish to remain open for the ad hoc, experimental, and even controversial things that often wash up on our shores. Community fundraising is a way to keep that spirit alive."

School of Fish: This Spring the Fish Factory plan to bring back the School of Fish! School of Fish was born out of lockdown and is focused on bringing people together, tackling social isolation, improving well-being, and learning a diverse range of creative skills. Some of the rewards on offer in the crowdfunder include places on some special workshops from various amazing creative people who are donating their time (including Freymo, Nina Fenner, Camilla Stacey, Fran Northcott, Kyra Norman). You can also opt to subsidise a workshop place for somebody who can't afford it. 

Free food for our community: The Fish Factory are also fundraising for community food events. They have been providing a free Christmas day meal for the last 4 years and now that the cost of living crisis is where they are expanding this provision with free food events at least twice a month. They have had some help from Penryn and Cornwall council - but with your help, they can do so much more! 

The Fish Factory is a not-for-profit community interest company (CIC) and put the commitment to the community at the forefront of everything they do. Continuing to provide affordable studio, exhibition, and event space to encourage and support local creators. 

"We have always worked hard to be a safe, welcoming, and accessible space for everyone, and with support from you we can increase our provision and support even more people," Camila added.

You can find the link for the fundraiser here: Crowdfunder they are hoping for donations but also offer an invitation for people to get involved, bring your creative projects and join their community.

The Fish Factory is also looking for people who can volunteer time to help apply for funding opportunities- if this sounds like you please get in touch. Contact details are available here: The Fish Factory.