Watermans is the major arts centre in West London. We are an independent cinema, theatre with a year-round programme for children, a new media art gallery and a creative space for the community.
We are situated in a stunning location on the banks of the River Thames, opposite Kew Gardens with a large riverside café/bar and restaurant.
We are a social enterprise which means that any money we make is ploughed back into providing high-quality arts events for the whole community.
Our mission is to bring communities together through cultural participation.
We believe it isn’t just important to reach audiences, but to get audiences to take part in the Arts. This idea drives everything we do. It means that there are always things to do here for people from all walks of life. It means that we make a point of catering for minority groups, disabled groups and marginalised groups. It also means that we treat these groups just like everybody else. We give them the same access and opportunities but we also have the same expectations for them.
We deliver an extensive learning and participation programme for young people which offers over 2000 sessions per year with attendances of over 50,000. Programmes are typically focused on creative skills development, raising aspirations and introducing young people to creative employment opportunities.
We are passionate about taking arts and culture outside to places where people naturally gather, such as the opening of Bell Square a brand new outdoor arts venue in Hounslow Town Centre. Or seeking out new audiences in places where you don’t usually expect to see the Arts, such as our leading role in Hounslow’s Creative People and Places programme.
Come and visit – we look forward to welcoming you!
