SPACES TO HIRE AT BACKLIT
About Us
Founded in 2008 as an artist-led space by Nottingham graduates, BACKLIT has evolved into an internationally renowned independent public gallery and cultural organisation.
Since opening, we have contributed to over 14 years of arts and culture, presenting more than 100 national and international exhibitions, and continuing to support significant discussions around contemporary art.
Housed in a historic Victorian building Est. 1872, the galleries feature across three floors, alongside our creative studios. We are home to over 120 artists, collectives, and associate members. Our yearly free programme of exhibitions, events and workshops support an essential framework for the public, local people, communities, students and creatives at all stages of life to develop.
Being LGBTQ+ and Female-led is part of our ongoing foundations as a cultural organisation. We care about equity, inclusion, mental health, the environment and being a safe space for all.
BACKLIT is a registered charity, no 1167258, and Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation.
The Main Gallery
A bright, open space with high ceilings and exposed brick. The Main Gallery is partitioned by bright, white walls into four separate display areas. The gallery is perfect for photo shoots, a filming location, product launch or a special event.
Click to View The Main Gallery Floorplan
Access
The Main Gallery Space is located on the second floor of our building and is lift accessible.
Capacity
Standing: 250
Costs
Half day (up to 4 hours) £250
Day (up to 8 hours) £450
Week £1400
(week rate includes technician to support one install day and one de-install day.)
Dimensions
4.77 x 4.89m
4.38 x 4.43m
3.68 x 7.57m
4.92 x 8.86m
The Project Gallery
A unique space on our new basement level, The Project Gallery is the hub of BACKLIT, located on ground level with large windows letting in plenty of natural light. With gallery-finish walls and original features, this spacious and flexible space, is perfect for exhibitions, coffee mornings, talks and special events. The space also benefits from its own private entrance.
Click to View The Project Gallery Floorplan
Access
The Project Gallery is accessible from street level and has lift access.
Capacity
Standing: 175
Costs
Half day (up to 4 hours) £150
Day (up to 8 hours) £200
Week £600
(week rate includes technician to support one install day and one de-install day.)
Dimensions
6 x 18.12m
The Screening Room
Cosy and intimate, The Screening Room is a blacked-out, soundproofed space with cinema screen, projector, and sound equipment, making it perfect for large-scale presenations and screenings. It has a naturally lit breakout space for post-screening discussions and meetings.
Access
The Screening Room is lift accessible.
Capacity
Standing: 30
Costs
Half day (up to 4 hours) £150
Day (up to 8 hours) £250
Week £450
(Week rates include AV technician to support The Screening Room hire)
Dimensions
5.8 x 7.033m
Discounted Rates
Discount hire rates are available to community groups, charities, students and BACKLIT Associate and Studio Members. Discount is only available on 1 week minimum hires only.
10% discount for BACKLIT Associate and Studio Members, and Students.
50% discount for incorporated community groups and charities that support BACKLIT’s wider aims. This discount is dependent on a separate application, please email info@backlit.org.uk for further info.
INFO
Staffing
A BACKLIT Member of staff must be present for all single day hires outside of office hours (Wednesday - Friday 9am to 6pm). Staff time is included in hire fees. We can supply building health and safety training if your hire is longer than a day. A BACKLIT staff member will still need to be present for all evening events which will incur additional charges.
Invigilators
We require a minimum of 2 invigilators to be present for all public exhibitions and events. Invigilators will be supplied by the hiring person/organisation and will need to be trained in BACKLIT building Health and Safety procedures prior to the event.
Refreshments
We can provide tea and coffee at £0.50 per person. Alcohol must be provided bythe person hiring the space and must be supplied to visitors free of charge. There is no in-house catering but we’re happy to provide a list BACKLIT-approved caterers.
Technicians
It is compulsory for a BACKLIT Technician to give a minimum of 2 days of support for exhibition set ups and take- downs. The cost of these is included in the hire price. Additional days are charged at £200 per day.
Deposit
A deposit which is a percentage of the cost of renting out a space will be charged to each hire. This will be fully refundable after inspection of the space post-hire.
Other
PA up to 8 hours is £50
PA for 1 week is £150
Projector up to 8 hours is £50
Projector for 1 week is £150