Breaking Barriers appeal backed by Emma McClarkin MEP

East Midlands MEP Emma McClarkin is this week calling on people to support the ‘Breaking Barriers’ appeal, which has been launched by the University of Leicester.

The appeal aims to break down barriers which prevent people – including those with disabilities and those with young children – from accessing the best contemporary and visual arts.

The University is aiming to raise £1.5 million to build a New Galleries Wing which will provide 50% more space and include an outdoor sculpture court, a flexible creativity space and three new gallery spaces. The new development will be fully accessible and use the latest in technology, enabling disabled and non-disabled audiences to enjoy the very best of the contemporary arts in new and exciting ways.

The University has already been awarded a prestigious challenge grant from Arts Council England which will provide £600,000 on the condition that the balance, £900,000, is raised by the end of October 2013.

After making a donation herself, Miss McClarkin said:

“Art is a very powerful way of allowing people to express themselves, and is something that can be appreciated by everyone – no matter what their background or ability.

“I would urge everyone in Leicestershire to consider making a donation to this incredibly worthwhile appeal. This is a great project which promises to give people – especially those who are disadvantaged – greater access to art, which can only enrich their lives.”

The University’s Deputy Director of Development, Ave Vinick, welcomed Miss McClarkin’s support, saying:

“This fantastic backing from our East Midlands MEP underscores the value of this project not just for Leicester, but for the entire region. We believe, as does Miss McClarkin, that the New Galleries Wing which will be made possible by the Breaking Barriers Appeal will make a transformative difference to the thousands of people we cannot currently serve due to lack of space. We have had tremendous support so far and have gone over the £1 million mark in our fundraising. However, we urgently need for the whole community to get behind this effort to ensure we raise the necessary funds by the end of October. I would remind everyone that every £3 donated will attract £2 from the Arts Council England challenge grant.”

For more information, and to make a donation, go to http://www.le.ac.uk/breakingbarriers