Redwing is an Arts and Community Hub located in Penzance, Cornwall. They participated in the Matched Crowdfunding Pilot to raise funds towards decorating and securing a lease to remain in their building. We spoke to Roselyne, the co-director, about the campaign itself and what has been achieved since. In the case of Redwing, crowdfunding meant not only a vital cash injection, but a raised profile that has attracted new activity to the centre. To Roselyne, crowdfunding also offered something more engaging and creative than other fundraising methods.

Redwing, a volunteer-led not-for-profit, has transformed an old neglected building in Penzance into a vibrant community asset, existing as a community hub with an art gallery that is accessible to artists. The approach of being “really happy to stop what we’re doing and find time to look at art” creates a comfortable atmosphere for people looking to showcase their work.

Several months later, Roselyne reflected on the “amazing changes that have happened”, both in terms of the aesthetic revamp made possible by the funding raised, and through the new audiences engaged in what they’re doing. She commented that there are “so many more things happening there” and that “they’re reaching different people as well” which highlights the long lasting interactions that can stem from crowdfunding.

Roselyne also talked to us about the uniqueness of crowdfunding for raising money, and provided an insight into how someone working in the arts sector views the method. She “found it a lot easier and more creative than filling in forms and sending them off to a funder”, with the need for engaging content and the link to social media particularly appealing to her creative side. Crowdfunding can be an enjoyable method of gathering support from the public, especially for arts-based projects where those seeking the funding can be creative with their message and how they request support. This has led to Roselyne recommending crowdfunding to three or four other arts projects.

To find out more about Redwing, visit their website.