Jacob Rees Mogg MP writes:

As Aristotle once said: "The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance."

Art has always been extremely important to the formation of Parliament, which is why the Grants Scheme, funded by the Speaker's Art Fund, has been established to deliver local constituency arts and educational projects with a focus on increasing the understanding of Parliamentary democracy across the United Kingdom. 

This initiative will offer an opportunity for constituents to bid for £500 to deliver their projects. The first round of applications is open until 12th January 2024 and only one entry from each constituency can be considered. This must include a letter of recommendation from me as your Member of Parliament. It is important to note that the Art Fund is not funded through the taxpayer but through income from the sales of Christmas cards and tours of Mr. Speaker's House.

Successful applicants from the last round include the Bexley Nepalese Community who submitted its mural celebrating the railway heritage of Darlington as home of the first railway. The project aimed to help the understanding of Parliamentary Democracy in Darlington. The Battle of Worcester Society also increased awareness amongst all year six primary students across Worcester about of the battle of Worcester within the context of the civil wars and the origins of Charles II and Oliver Cromwell.

If you think that you meet the criteria, please see further information and the application form online here: https://www.parliament.uk/business/commons/the-speaker/speakers-art-fund/speakers-art-fund-democracy-for-all-grant/

If you decide to submit a proposal please contact me: www.jacobreesmogg.com / [email protected]