Patrons' Projects
The generous support given by our Patrons provides Tate with essential funding for exhibitions, conservation, archive, acquisitions and education projects.
The Patrons have helped Tate to acquire over 200 art works and here are just a few highlighted projects they have assisted with:
- Bob and Roberta Smith, b.1963, Make Art Not War, 1996
Tate Patrons support the activities of the current generation of artists making work now. In 2007, Tate Patrons were delighted to be able to allocate funds towards Make Art Not War (1996), the first art work by Bob and Roberta Smith to enter the Tate Collection. Carefully painted in household gloss, Make Art Not War directly addresses the audience, whilst highlighting the artist's reflection on politics and art. - Anthony van Dyck, Portrait of Sir William Killigrew, 1638
Tate Patrons supported the purchase of Portrait of Sir William Killigrew in 2002. William Killigrew, a gentleman-usher to King Charles I, was a poet, and later, a playwright; here portrayed by the master portrait painter van Dyck. Following this acquisition, Tate purchased Portrait of Mary Hill, Lady Killigrew (1638), reuniting the pair for the first time in many years. - The archive of David Sylvester (1924-2001)
David Sylvester was arguably the most important British art critic of his generation. In 2007 Tate Patrons helped support the acquisition of his archive, which has provided Tate with an exceptional source for the study of the criticism of modern art in the latter half of the twentieth century. Sylvester’s archive is a crucial foundation for the establishment of modern art in the public consciousness, the acquisition of which would not have been possible without Tate patrons. - Modern Painters: The Camden Town Group
Tate produces a stunning special exhibitions programme of international standing. This reputation would not be possible without the help of Tate’s supporters. In 2007 the Tate Patrons provided funding for Modern Painters: The Camden Town Group, which was on display at Tate Britain in spring 2008. This critically acclaimed major exhibition welcomed an impressive ten per cent more visitors then expected. - Sure Start Programme
Education is at the heart of Tate's activities and our Patrons share a collective enthusiasm for increasing knowledge, understanding and appreciation for art. Throughout 2007, the Patrons supported the Sure Start Programme, enabling hundreds of children from schools in the Westminster area to take part in a variety of workshops, events and activities at Tate Britain.
If you are interested in learning more about all the acquisitions and projects the Tate Patrons have supported over the years, please contact the Patrons' office on +44(0)20 7887 8743 or email.
Charles Ginner
Piccadilly Circus 1912
© The estate of Charles Ginner
Photo © Richard Eaton
Big and Small workshop, Tate Britain