It is with heavy hearts that we announce the closure of San Mei Gallery after seven extraordinary years of operation. This decision marks the end of an incredible journey, one that has been filled with creativity, connection, and a shared passion for the arts.
Since we opened our doors in 2017, San Mei Gallery has been more than just a gallery—it has been a space for ideas, a platform for emerging talent, and a gathering place for our community. Together, we have celebrated countless exhibitions, events, and collaborations. We have witnessed artists grow, friendships form, and creativity flourish. We are profoundly grateful for every moment.
However, despite our best efforts we have been unable to secure the resources needed to sustain our operations. The year 2024 was a challenging one for many, including us. Our umbrella organisation, which includes both San Mei Gallery and Van Gogh House, faced a substantial funding cut at the end of the year when a major donor unexpectedly had to withdraw. This left us with no choice but to reassess our future.
Just a couple of months ago we launched an ambitious campaign for Van Gogh House and San Mei Gallery to raise £125,000 to fill the gap in funding. The response was humbling: individual donors, members of the public and artistic communities gave generously, and our exhibiting artists contributed by donating portions of their sales. Together, we raised an incredible £16,240 for the organisation—a testament to the love and support for what we’ve built. However, without any success in acquiring new major donors, the amount raised, while deeply appreciated, is not enough to continue operating both San Mei Gallery and Van Gogh House.
After much deliberation, we have had to make the difficult decision to end programming at San Mei Gallery and focus our resources and energy towards Van Gogh House. Purchased in 2012, 87 Hackford Road—the historic home in Brixton, South London where Van Gogh once lived—has always been at the heart of our creative organisation. While San Mei Gallery quickly developed its own strong identity and audience, sustaining both spaces has stretched our resources to their limits. To honour our organisation’s commitment to fostering creativity and connection, we will consolidate around Van Gogh House, so that our mission can thrive for years to come.
We cannot overstate how hard this decision has been, but it is tempered by the immense gratitude we feel for the journey we’ve shared with all of you.
Thank You
To everyone who visited San Mei Gallery, attended our events, or supported us from near or far: thank you for being part of this story. Your enthusiasm and engagement have been the lifeblood of this space.
To the hundreds of artists, musicians, and creatives who filled San Mei with brilliance: you are the reason this space became so much more than we ever imagined. Thank you for trusting us with your work, for sharing your talent, and for inspiring us every day. We would like to especially thank our open call selected artists for their understanding. Whilst we are unable to fulfil their exhibitions which had been scheduled for this year, we hope there will be opportunities to support their practices and projects in some form in the future.
To our friends, supporters, partners, and sponsors: your advice, generosity, and belief in our vision helped us achieve more than we thought possible.
To our incredible team, past and present: you are the heart and soul of San Mei Gallery. Your tireless efforts, creativity, and care have shaped this space into something truly special. You have gone above and beyond in every way—bringing ideas to life, creating meaningful connections, and pouring your hearts into everything you do. The legacy of San Mei Gallery is a testament to your hard work, and we are forever grateful.
Moving Forward
We know some of you may have donated money or artworks to our campaign with San Mei Gallery specifically in mind. If this outcome leaves you feeling disappointed and you would like to know more about how we will be continuing to use the funds to support artists, or the options available to you please contact us at Eleanor@sanmeigallery.co.uk.
Though this chapter is closing, the spirit of San Mei Gallery will live on in the countless memories, connections, and creative sparks it inspired. We take comfort in knowing that its impact will continue through the work of the artists we’ve supported and the community we’ve built.
As we turn to Van Gogh House, we carry forward the same dedication to fostering creativity and connection. This historic house, where Vincent van Gogh once lived, continues to be a hub for contemporary artists worldwide, offering space and resources for creating and sharing work. Its mission is to support artists, celebrate Van Gogh’s London legacy, engage the public through exhibitions and events, and connect deeply with the local community through outreach and schools programs. Please come and visit us at Van Gogh House and continue to engage with our programme by following @vangoghlondon and visiting vangoghhouse.co.uk.
Entering this new chapter we are filled with pride and gratitude for all that San Mei Gallery has achieved and inspired.
With heartfelt thanks,
Eleanor, Livia, and Alice
Directors of Van Gogh House London & Gallery CIC
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