An independent department store and events venue in the heart of Bristol’s city centre has launched a fundraiser to help find a new home, after being told by the landlord of the property that it and the six local businesses it houses need to be out of the building by December.
Art Club has been open on Bond Street for the past three-and-a-half years and describes itself as a “platform for local businesses, independent artists, and the creative community at large”. It boasts unique shopping events, club nights, gigs, exhibitions, workshops, and other events in its calendar, but has now been told by the property landlord that it has to relocate.
BristolLive reported on Thursday (September 19) that local businesses housed at the venue have been told they need to be out of the building by December 17. Among them are hugely popular Wild Thing fashion brand, Back Garden Pizzeria, Club Cuts barbers and Glow Up beauty studio.
Now, Art Club itself has launched a GoFundMe page to raise £35,000, which will go directly towards relocation costs and costs of securing a new venue ‘to keep Art Club alive’, supporting the team of six small businesses that depend on the space in re-fitting out their area within the new location, and costs for fitting the new Art Club facilities when a new location is secured.
Art Club says: “Art Club has been a place where creativity is celebrated and connections are made. Unfortunately, we now face the heartbreaking reality of losing our tenancy in the building that we call home, despite all negotiation attempts with the building’s ownership.
“Rising costs and the challenges of operating in the city centre as well as now needing to relocate in such short notice, have put us all in a situation where we urgently need your help to keep our doors open past December 2025. This space is not just about retail; it’s about the incredible collaborations, friendships, and moments that have been sparked here. Without your support, Bristol will lose a crucial space for local community to come together.
“Our goal is to raise £35,000 to cover these costs and ensure that Art Club can continue to serve as a creative sanctuary in Bristol. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a huge difference. If you can’t contribute financially, please help us by spreading the word and sharing our campaign with your network.
“We believe in the power of community, and with your support, we can keep the spirit of Art Club alive for many more years to come. Thank you for standing with us, and helping to keep us open! With love, The Art Club Team.”
You can donate to the GoFundMe page here.