Metroland is celebrating its five-year anniversary of art and community work in Brent.
Metroland supports Brent by providing cultural opportunities to the community.
The charity is governed by the local people and is trying to increase the cultural landscape, with activities such as exhibitions and festivals.
In 2021, Metroland received a one-time grant of £1million from the council, known as the Legacy Grant, to strengthen its foundation and develop a sustainable business model by March 2024.
Throughout this time, the charity was tasked with expanding upon the successes of Brent’s tenure as London Borough of Culture, with the aim of establishing a lasting legacy for arts and artists in the borough.
Since the money was given to Metroland, the charity has continued to integrate insights and experiences from the London Borough of Culture, ensuring that key initiatives remain deeply rooted within the community.
“Metroland’s presence and work in Brent reflects our commitment to support local artists and collaborate with our communities,” said Chair of the board of Metroland Rachel Dedman.
“As we look to the future, we wish to reiterate our appreciation for the foundational partnership with Brent Council.”
Since 2020, Metroland Cultures has engaged with more than 260,000 people and provided more than 200 paid employment opportunities for artists, creatives and young people.
Located in a former health centre in Kilburn, Metroland Cultures now provides artist studios, a gallery, workshop space, a radio station, cinema, printing press, zine library, and recording studio.
Director of resident services Thomas Cattermole said: “From supporting Brent as London Borough of Culture to fostering local talent and providing invaluable opportunities, Metroland has helped enrich the cultural fabric of our borough.
“As we reflect on these achievements and look to the future, we are excited to begin work on developing our new cultural strategy.”
See more about Metroland here.
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