Charles Asprey Gifts 53 Contemporary Works to Pier Arts Centre in Orkney

Charles Asprey, a publisher and heir to a jewellery fortune, has contributed 53 contemporary artworks to the Pier Arts Centre located in Stromness, Orkney. This collection features creations by notable artists such as Wolfgang Tillmans, Martin Puryear, and Atelier E.B., and enhances the Modern British art collection originally founded by Margaret Gardiner in 1979. Asprey emphasizes the need to revitalize the UK's regions, pointing out the lack of support from Arts Council England and Creative Scotland. His donation, facilitated via the UK's Cultural Gifts Scheme, allows for a 30% tax reduction on the item's value. Associate curator Kari Adams describes this as the centre's "most significant act of philanthropy since 1979." Asprey also supports an artist residency and acquisition fund, highlighting difficulties in drawing audiences from London.