The birthplace of renowned 18th Century artist Thomas Gainsborough has launched an appeal to help preserve its collection of culturally significant works.
Gainsborough’s House, in Gainsborough Street, Sudbury, is home to the key collection of the painter’s portraits, landscapes and artefacts.
It has now launched an appeal to raise £8,000 to ensure it can continue to protect these works for generations to come.
Lex Gortsilas, marketing officer, with assistant curator Mahaut de la Motte. Picture Mark Westley
The museum is hoping to raise the money for its art store, described at ‘the heart of everything it does’.
Marketing officer Lex Gortsilas, said: “Every masterpiece people admire, every story they hear, depend on the care and security of this behind-the-scenes space.
“So far, we have been successful in our request for funding from the Pilgrim Trust and Association for Independent Museums and have been granted £10,000 towards this project.
Gainsborough House has launched an appeal to help fund its vital art room. Picture Mark Westley
“But we need your help to match this funding. This project, amongst many others initiated at Gainsborough’s House, highlights the challenges we face as an independent charity whose funding is completely self-sourced.
“It will not only help protect Gainsborough’s legacy – but also open the doors wider, ensuring the Gainsborough’s House collection is a space for everyone.”
The art store houses not just Gainsborough’s works but those of Cedric Morris, John Constable, Henry William Bunbury, Hubert-François Gravelot, and many others who’ve left an indelible mark on history.
Lex added: “It will enable us to keep artworks accessible for researchers through our Livanos Study Room and to rotate our displays; bringing more and more of our collections out onto display for everyone to enjoy.”
Gainsborough House art store campaign. Picture: Gainsborough House
Donation will ensure the climate control systems to keep art stable and safe from decay, specialist storage solutions to prevent damage to fragile pieces, access for future generations.
To support the appeal, people can sponsor the future of a masterpiece for £25. This maintains secure storage for one artwork for a month.
£50 contributes towards essential training for the care and display of our collections.
Gainsborough House art store campaign. Picture: Gainsborough House
£350 funds a specialist conservator for one day of vital care.
Lex said: “But every little helps. We really appreciate donations of any size; if you can spare a few pounds to help our cause we will be most grateful.
“We know some people think that art collections are off-limits, but we’re committed to breaking down those barriers.
“Gainsborough’s House isn’t just for art lovers, it’s for everyone who values creativity, history, and the power of storytelling. Your support helps us grow as a welcoming and inclusive space, where all voices are heard.”