Affordable artists’ studios in London
Founded by Jonathan Harvey and David Panton in 1972, Acme Studios is a London-based charity which provides affordable studio space residencies and awards for non-commercial fine artists. Through this provision it continues to make a vital contribution to the development of art and artists’ careers.
Acme supports over 500 artists and manages 400 studios in 11 buildings in London, offering a wide range of space including permanent new-build studios.
£215 per month for a 300 sq ft (28 sq m) studio
The current average cost of an Acme studio is £8.60 per sq ft per year. This is one third the price of a comparable commercial space. The rent is fully inclusive of business rates, insurance and service charges - the only extra cost is electricity.
Artists are allocated studios based on individual needs and time on our waiting list.
Since its inception Acme has taken the lead in developing affordable, high-quality, secure and accessible space for artists in England. It has developed pioneering projects for permanent studio space with:
In addition to affordable studio space, Acme also offers one of the most supportive and extensive awards and residencies programmes in the UK including:
- Adrian Carruthers Award
- Fire Station Work/live
- Jessica Wilkes Award
- Southwark Studio Residency
- Tower Hamlets Studio Residency
Working with the National Federation of Artists’ Studio Providers, Acme also offers support, advice and associated publications for artists, studios groups, and all those with an interest in helping to develop affordable space for artists, and acts as an advocate on behalf of the affordable studios sector.
Acme’s International Residencies Programme manages 24 artists’ residencies in London for international governments, cultural agencies and foundations.
Richard Deacon, sculptor, Turner Prize Winner and former Acme studio holder, Acme Studios For Artists (1995)
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Related News
Two graduate artists receive free Acme Studios

Recent graduates Janne Malmros and Sam Austen have been awarded free studios as part of two awards managed by Acme Studios... 03.07.2009
Culture Minister visits artists’ studios to see benefits to culture and communities

Minister for Culture, Creative Industries and Tourism, Barbara Follett, recently (3 June) visited Acme Studios new-build Leven Road studios... 04.06.2009

