Our Story
Over the Years
1957
The Trust is founded
- Digswell Arts Trust was founded by Henry Morris, an influential educationalist who believed that artists were vital to the wellbeing of society.
1959
Formally inaugurated
- The Trust was formally inaugurated by Lady Mountbatten on 29 May 1959, beginning its long-standing commitment to supporting professional artists.
1957–1984
Digswell House
- Digswell House became the Trust’s first home, providing affordable accommodation, studios and workshops. Nearly 150 artists were supported there over 27 years.
1984–2006
Attimore Hall Barn
- When Digswell House became too costly to maintain, the Trust moved to Attimore Hall Barn near Welwyn Garden City, where it remained until 2006.
1993
Fairlands Valley Farmhouse
- Stevenage Borough Council agreed to lease Fairlands Valley Farmhouse to the Trust, expanding its activities and doubling the studio space available to artists.
2006
The Forge
- With support from English Partnerships, the Trust took a 25-year lease on a purpose-built studio building on the site of the former forge in Digswell.
2011–2024
Fenners Building
- Working in partnership with Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation, the Trust opened an additional studio facility at the Fenners Building in 2011. Digswell Arts operated there until 2024.
2024
Activities consolidated at The Forge
- Following the end of the Trust’s time at Fenners, its activities were consolidated at The Forge in Digswell, which is now its only studio location.
