A NEW art project is set to be run across Test Valley following a major cash boost.

Residents are invited to come up with ideas to help promote art across the borough in the next few years.

This comes after Test Valley Arts Foundation (TVAF) has announced plans for a new borough-wide arts and culture project for 2020.

Last week Hampshire County Council awarded TVAF £500,000 to be used towards the new scheme.

The independent charity, which has invested more than £1million in the arts in Test Valley since 1991, said the project aims to celebrate and promote the borough’s rich and diverse arts scene whilst also seeking out opportunities to “fill the gaps” and create new events in areas which are less active.

A spokesperson for the charity said: “The project is in its early stages, the first step being to connect with venues, groups and organisations wishing to take part, whatever stage their own plans may be. Once those active participants have been identified, Test Valley Arts Foundation will offer support, whilst also seeking to create new arts opportunities for the areas which are lacking in activity so that the project will achieve its aim of borough-wide impact.”

The project is the first of its kind for TVAF and aims to promote and support arts projects, festivals, concerts, performances and workshops across Test Valley in 2020.

Yinnon Ezra MBE, TVAF’s chairman, said: “We firmly believe that the arts and culture is for everyone and want to make it fully accessible. Opportunities will be created for artists to engage with their communities, bringing creativity, innovation, joy, emotion and expression everywhere.”

Details of the project have not been finalised yet.

But TVAF is asking for anyone with plans or ideas for arts related projects to get in touch now so that they can be supported in anything that is needed ahead of the launch of the scheme in 2020, including fundraising and promotion.

Organisers are also seeking suggestions for areas in which they could create new arts opportunities.

Those who would like to get involved can contact rebecca@testvalleyarts.org or use the online contact form at www.testvalleyarts.org.

Alternatively call 01794 301243.