Tom Freshwater Contemporary Art Programme Manager
Welcome to the Trust New Art blog. I am Tom Freshwater, the National Trust’s Contemporary Art Programme Manager.
Trust New Art connects more people to National Trust places through contemporary art and craft. It is supported by a partnership with Arts Council England.
The National Trust has been working with contemporary artists at our places for many years – but this is the first time we have pulled all our activity together to tell people about it.
Through this blog you can find out about projects that are already happening, and those that we are planning for the future.
As an organisation, we know that we need to connect with more people. We want to create unforgettable experiences for visitors to National Trust places. We want to support art projects that enhance our places and the stories that are found there.
Many of our places have a history of showing the contemporary art of their day: Kedleston Hall, Ickworth, Petworth, Mottisfont, Croome Park – and there are others. By continuing this legacy, we are keeping these places alive in the spirit of how they were created.
Creative projects can also help people see somewhere in a new light – whether a historic house, landscape, garden or coastal area – and can offer a ‘way in’ for people who otherwise would not think of visiting.
We are prepared to challenge people and their expectations – but we are not setting out to offend. We want to know what you think, so do let us know.
You can also follow us on Twitter (@trustnewart) and see further detail at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/trustnewart.
Trust New Art Blog 