Who we are
The Artists’ General Benevolent Institution (AGBI) was founded in 1814 by members of the Royal Academy of Arts including J.M.W Turner, John Constable and John Soane and incorporated by Royal Charter in 1842, it is one of the oldest charities in the United Kingdom.
The AGBI financially supports professional artists in need and their dependents living in England, Wales or Northern Ireland who cannot work or earn due to accident, illness or older age. The AGBI is run by a Council of mainly practicing artists, applied artists, art custodians and medical professionals who give their time freely and meet regularly to discuss cases. The Council is supported by a small team of staff.
The AGBI financially supports professional artists in need and their dependents living in England, Wales or Northern Ireland who cannot work or earn due to accident, illness or older age. The AGBI is run by a Council of mainly practicing artists, applied artists, art custodians and medical professionals who give their time freely and meet regularly to discuss cases. The Council is supported by a small team of staff.
Who do we help?
Who does the AGBI help? Any professional artist can apply for help if they have earned their living (or major part of it) from art. Widows and orphaned children of artists are also eligible for help. Unfortunately, the AGBI is unable to assist in cases when an artist is unable to find a market for their work. The AGBI is unable to assist with legal fees, business difficulties or education grants for mature students.
case studies
Read the story of how we've helped several artists who have found themselves in need.
bicentenary print
42 leading British artists have contributed to the making of a limited edition print celebrating our bicentenary.
impact report
Read about our performance and the number of artists we've supported. You can also download our Annual Reports, and our latest Impact Report.
how to help
The recipients of our support rely on your donations.
There are many ways that you can help us continue the work we've done for over 200 years by donations, legacies and Gift Aid.
artists' charity cards
To help raise much needed funds, the AGBI produces greetings cards by distinguished artists connected to the charity. Our greeting cards are available all year round, and we're pleased to say our Christmas cards for 2019 are now available.
get in contact
Click here to find our contact details and the AGBI postal address.
