Manchester-based former NPO closes

A support organisation for photographers across the UK has closed, citing a lack of funding as a contributing factor.

Manchester-based Redeye, The Photography Network, which launched in 1998 to provide support and networking opportunities for photographers, wound down at the end of last month.

Redeye received £88,000 a year from ACE as part of the National Portfolio for 2018-22 as a Sector Support Organisation. It was also part of the National Portfolio for 2015- 18.

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"We regret to announce that after 26 years of supporting photographers and championing photography throughout the UK, Redeye, the Photography Network will wind down on 31 July 2024 due to a number of factors, including lack of funding," a statement issued by Redeye Chair Lindsay Taylor on behalf of the organisation's board, said.

Redeye has been iearly-stagege talks with Arts Council England, Open Eye Gallery in Liverpo,ol and Impressions Gallery in Bradford about developing a new network based in the North of England.

"Redeye was set up to advocate for photographers at every level and build networks across photography, delivering an innovative and vital programme," the statement said.

"We are actively continuing to explore potential options for new provision of this service and hope to make a further announcement in the near future."

Redeye is one of several former NPOs that have closed after failing to secure funding as part of the 2023-26 National Portfolio.

In November last year Arts Professional reported that at least 10 members of the 2018-22 portfolio had announced plans to close since missing out on funding.

Since 2018, around 50 former NPOs have closed.