Victoria and Albert Museum

Arts Council of Great Britain: records, 1928-1997

Series description

Context

The first Regional Arts Association was established in 1956 in the South West. It was soon followed by the creation of similar bodies in the North East and the Midlands. The South West and the Midland Arts Associations both began as federations of arts centres and arts clubs in their respective regions. The North East Arts Associations on the other hand, had close constitutional links with the local authorities in the North East.

A government White Paper in 1965 set out the case for the RAAs, proposing that a 'network of such groups should be developed to cover the whole country'. During the next few years the RAA network developed across the country establishing working partnerships between the Arts Council and large groups of local authorities. The RAAs were seen as an element in a devolution process whereby the Arts Council supported increased regional activity as part of its Charter's obligations.

Scope and content

This large series contains files reflecting upon the work and administration of the individual Regional Arts Associations. The files include general correspondence, agendas and minutes, regional publications, press and publicity material, strategy plans and management reviews.

Arrangement

The items in this series are arranged alphabetically.

Access

Restrictions on access

Access to unpublished material less than 30 years old is subject to the written permission of the Arts Council of England. Apply in the first instance to the Archive of Art and Design at the Victoria and Albert Museum.