ARTification, or Acton Arts Forum as it was known then, emerged out of Acton Community Forum as ACAVA concluded its government-funded work with artists and art spaces in the area. Acton Arts Forum gathered artists, cultural groups, and creatives together in 2003 to decide what we felt would be the best way forward. This gathering established a monthly arts forum to discuss and act upon current and topical arts focused issues; established an annual visual arts exhibition and performing arts festival; and brokered opportunities for the arts communities to thrive.

Led by Rachel Pepper, Acton Arts Forum held its first Arts Festival in 2003. Since then, the arts in Acton has grown and flourished, engaging artists and audiences’ alike.  Over time, with firm community roots established, we built on a solid foundation, diversified, explored innovative ways to express and connect people. This we have done through public art, projects, events, at our permanent and pop-up venues and galleries.

The ARTification vision is to connect people and places through a vibrant arts culture. We make this happen by responding to local needs and developing our arts and cultural venues, with initiatives that bring communities together to catalyse change.  ARTification’s work is transformative, as we have witnessed that making and experiencing arts and culture transforms the quality of life for individuals, communities, and indeed neighbourhoods.