Cultural Organisations
The UK’s cultural sector, from its museums and galleries, to prominent performing arts venues, stately homes and historic gardens is the envy of the world. These institutions are an important part of our national identity and they play a vital role in the economy. They are run by large, sophisticated organisations that are constantly adapting to ensure continued success in the context of pressures on funding and frequent changes to policy, law and regulation affecting the sector.
Our experience in acting for cultural organisations
We have been one of the top legal advisers to the cultural sector for decades. We are privileged to count as clients some of the UK’s highest profile galleries, museums and cultural institutions, internationally renowned for their work.
Such institutions often come to us for advice on their most strategically critical issues. These demand an understanding of the specific constitutional and statutory frameworks, funding terms and public and policy context. In many cases they require a cross-disciplinary perspective. Our clients are not simply seeking advice on compliance but are looking for creative solutions to multi-faceted problems. These include:
- transformational infrastructure projects,
- establishment of foundations and trading entities,
- international partnerships,
- digitisation programmes, and
- the acquisition and management of nationally and internationally important cultural property.
In all cases the institution has to navigate multiple stakeholder sensitivities.
Our lawyers are attuned to the commercial realities in which you operate, and your need to obtain best value for stakeholders. We work closely with clients seeking to reduce costs, for example through putting in place shared service or outsourcing arrangements, and new financing models. Alongside projects designed to achieve better use of existing resources, we advise those looking to develop new resources by exploiting alternative revenue streams. Our intellectual property specialists regularly act for cultural organisations on sponsorship, brand licensing, publishing and retail opportunities. Clients draw on our expert advice when they are exploring new partnerships and developing new locations, at home or overseas.
Our clients value our informed perspective and track record delivering solutions for the critical issues they face. Our wide-ranging sector knowledge gives us the ability to respond quickly and efficiently, no matter how complex the challenge, and we always keep in mind the values and objectives (be they statutory and/or charitable) that underpin your activities.
Operating at the heart of the sector for many years, our lawyers regularly contribute their expertise and insight through industry associations including The Art Fund, The Museums Association, Historic Houses, The Association of Independent Museums, The Institute of Art & Law, and The Association of Leading Visitor Attractions.
