Ilminster Arts Centre, a cherished cultural hub and registered charity, has been inspiring the community for nearly 30 years. Founded in 1995 by artist and illustrator Mary Atherton and her husband Jim, the Arts Centre is housed in the historic Meeting House—a former Unitarian chapel dating back to 1718-19.

Our mission is to support engagement in the arts, inspire creativity, and foster community connections, making the arts more visible and accessible in our rural area and throughout the South West. We achieve this through a diverse range of activities, including arts and crafts workshops, free art exhibitions, and concerts that reach approximately 20,000 beneficiaries annually.

Our vision is to create an Arts Centre that not only meets the needs and expectations of the local community but also attracts a far wider audience. We aim to be an inclusive, dynamic cultural hub that actively serves communities across the district and beyond.

As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we remain deeply committed to preserving both the heritage of our remarkable building and the future of the Arts Centre itself. However, urgent repairs and redecoration are needed to restore the interior of our much-loved venue. Without essential funding, the upkeep of this historic space—and the vibrant arts programming it supports—will be at risk.

We rely on the generosity of our community to help us reach our fundraising goal. Every donation, no matter the size, will make a difference in ensuring Ilminster Arts Centre continues to thrive for the next 30 years and beyond.

Please consider making a contribution today to safeguard this vital cultural landmark.

If you’d like to donate to Ilminster Arts Centre, donations can be made in person or via or Just Giving page.

For more information about Ilminster Arts Centre or to learn how you can support us, please contact info@ilminsterarts.com or 01460 54973.