The project is to renovate and convert a 130-year old, 50-metre, Dutch former cargo barge into an arts and cultural space

Sir Anish Kapoor CBE, Patrick Brill OBE (aka Bob & Roberta Smith) & Bruce McLean, are amongst over 70 local &and internationally acclaimed artists who have donated art works to a fundraiser in aid of the ‘not-for-profit’ Ramsgate Arts Barge project.

The project is to renovate and convert a 130-year old, 50-metre, Dutch former cargo barge Vriendschap (Dutch for friendship) into an arts and cultural space to be permanently moored within Ramsgate Harbour (the UK’s only Royal Harbour).

RAB CIC Co-Director, Art Director & Artist, Natasha de Samarkandi, said: “We are honoured to host a sensational line-up of local & internationally acclaimed artists for this year's fundraising auction. The enthusiasm, support and generosity of the artists and community illustrate the need for this important arts, cultural & social project.”

Internal/external concept ideas for the Ramsgate Arts Barge (Image: del Renzio & del Renzio)

The social aim of the Ramsgate Arts Barge project is to provide access to the arts for children (2-16 years of age) living within the Thanet District, with profits reinvested to provide complimentary multidisciplinary art classes, workshops, courses and programmes.

The Ramsgate Arts Barge project aims to put Ramsgate on the map as a ‘must-visit’ destination for the arts, supporting and championing local artists and attracting internationally established artists in their field. The project will create jobs and boost the local economy by driving footfall into Ramsgate year-round.

With full planning application approved in October 2021 for mixed use including; exhibition, event, performance and community space, artist studios, bar & kitchen and a biodiversity supporting top deck garden area, Ramsgate Arts Barge Community Interest Company are currently working on major fundraising initiatives to bring this important arts, cultural & social project to life.

The Ramsgate Arts Barge Winter 2021 Art Auction

- Monday 22nd November 2021 - Sunday 5th December 2021 -

To view artworks & bid: www.jumblebee.co.uk/theramsgateartsbarge