Giles Blagden, Managing Director of Hicks Baker, serves as Chairman of the Reading Foundation for Art (RFA) and recently welcomed over 90 guests to the Madejski Gallery at Reading Museum on 29th January 2025 to celebrate the Foundation’s 50th anniversary. The event marked a significant milestone for the charity, which has enriched the cultural life of Reading for half a century.
A Unique Legacy for Reading
Founded in 1974 through an anonymous donation, the Reading Foundation for Art set out to build a public art collection for the people of Reading. What sets this collection apart is its independence from local councils, ensuring it remains safeguarded for the community and is never at risk of being sold.
Over the past 50 years, the Foundation has acquired more than 150 works spanning from the 18th century to the present day. The collection includes nationally significant pieces by renowned artists such as Paul Sandby, John Nash, Sir Peter Blake, John Piper, Mary Fedden, and Sir Terry Frost, with many works having local connections that appeal to art enthusiasts and historians alike.
Celebrating ‘Art Stories’
The anniversary coincided with the ‘Art Stories’ exhibition at Reading Museum, showcasing key works from the RFA’s collection. The exhibition runs until 22nd February 2025, highlighting the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to making world-class art accessible to the local community.
Supporting the Future of Art in Reading
As a registered charity, the RFA relies on the generosity of local donors, whose support is vital for the collection’s growth. The Foundation also actively engages with local artists, commissioning a wide range of works that form part of the Reading Museum’s permanent collection.
On the anniversary, Giles Blagden commented:
“The 50th anniversary of the RFA is not just a celebration of art; it’s a celebration of community, history, and generosity. The Foundation’s work ensures that Reading has access to an outstanding art collection that will continue to inspire future generations.”
