Mission statement 

Established in 1947, the ICA is the UK's original, multi-disciplinary arts centre, existing today to create a space for new, experimental and independent arts practice and ideas. Housing galleries, two cinemas, a theatre, learning space, studio, bookshop and bar, the ICA presents an international programme of work across artforms to a wide and diverse range of audiences.


Charitable objects

To promote the education of the community by fostering the understanding, appreciation, and development of the arts, with a particular focus on contemporary art. This includes but is not limited to painting, etching, engraving, drawing, poetry, philosophy, literature, drama, music, opera, ballet, sculpture, architecture, design, photography, film, radio, and television, all of which hold educational and cultural value. 

To preserve and display for public benefit the property at 12 Carlton House Terrace, London, ensuring its accessibility and educational use. 

To compile, preserve, and display an archive of contemporary film, photographs, and other materials of educational and cultural value, making them available for the benefit of the public.

You can find more details about our Governing Document here: 
register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk

As a registered charity, we platform a range of critical perspectives in line with the UK Charity Commission's guidelines and the ICA’s three charitable objectives (above). By law, the ICA cannot engage in any activity with political intent beyond its three objectives.

You can find more details about Charity Commission guidance here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/charity-commission-guidance

You can find more details about Charity Commission guidance on political activity here:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/political-activity-and-campaigning-by-charities

The ICA is an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation. 


Company information 

The ICA is a private limited company limited by guarantee. 
Company number: 00444351 
You can find more details about our company information here:
find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk

The ICA is a registered charity.
Charity number: 236848 
You can find more information about our charity information here:
https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk


Articles of Association

Report and financial statements to the year ending 31 March 2023


Funding

The ICA receives its income from the following sources:

Government funding (Arts Council England)
Donations and legacies
Charitable activities
Trading (programme)

You can find more information about our funding here:
register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-search


Values, Behaviours, and Commitments

The ICA is unwavering in its commitment to fostering a working environment that is free from discrimination, bullying, and sexual harassment. Our goal is to cultivate a diverse cultural community, while placing a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability. 

Code of Conduct

Mutual Respect

Every representative of the ICA is entitled to be treated with fairness and mutual respect. We expect all interactions to be conducted with respect and in consideration of differing opinions. This principle is fundamental to maintaining a positive and collaborative working environment.

Integrity

No individual should exploit their position for personal gain or to benefit another at the expense of the ICA. We prioritise the organisation's goals and reputation above personal interests. All actions should reflect the integrity and independence of the ICA.

Diversity and Inclusion

We acknowledge the vital contribution of diverse backgrounds, cultures, abilities, skills, and experiences to the organisation. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is integral to our mission and practices. We believe that a diverse team enhances our creative and organisational capabilities.

Anti-Racism

We are committed to actively opposing racism in all its forms. ICA fosters an inclusive environment that values diverse perspectives and ensures equal opportunities and fair treatment for all. We continuously educate ourselves to challenge and dismantle systemic racism within our community and the arts and culture sector.

We are working to ensure that our foundational principles are adhered to and developed collectively with the ICA team.  


Policies

Environmental Policy

Sustainable Practices

We are committed to reducing our environmental impact by carefully analysing our carbon footprint with culture and climate non-profit Julie’s Bicycle. Our aim is to ensure that all activities are planned and executed with sustainability in mind. We encourage our partners and stakeholders to adopt similar environmentally responsible practices.

Waste Reduction

The ICA strives to minimise waste production and maximise recycling efforts. Our goal is to achieve zero waste to landfill by recycling everything we can. This commitment is part of our broader strategy to improve our environmental performance continuously.

Modern Slavery Policy

Zero Tolerance

The ICA unequivocally condemns modern slavery and human trafficking in all forms. We are dedicated to acting ethically and with integrity in all our business dealings. We enforce robust systems to ensure that modern slavery is not present in our operations or supply chains.

Finance and Business Relationships

Financial Integrity

All financial transactions conducted by the ICA must be recorded accurately and comply with our stringent auditing requirements. We are committed to maintaining complete transparency in our financial practices. Any misuse of funds is reported immediately in accordance with our Whistleblowing Policy.

Procurement and Business Relationships

Ethical considerations are integral to our financial decisions. We will not invest in, nor contract with, companies or organisations that conflict with our values, such as those involved in arms production, tobacco, and fossil fuels.

Fundraising

Ethical Contributions

The ICA ensures that all significant financial contributions comply with legal, ethical, and best practice regulations and reviewed by the ICA Ethics Committee. Our fundraising practices are transparent, and we maintain open and honest relationships with our donors. Our fundraising principles are set out with adherence to the Institute of Fundraising’s Code of Fundraising Practice.

Conflict of Interest and Whistleblowing

Transparency

Representatives of the ICA must disclose any actual, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest. This ensures that all actions and decisions are made in the best interest of the ICA. Transparency in these matters is essential to maintaining trust and integrity within the organisation.

Whistleblowing

All breaches or suspected breaches of policies or legal requirements must be reported promptly. The ICA ensures that there is no retaliation against individuals who report such concerns. This policy is vital for upholding the ethical standards and legal compliance of the organisation. 

People

Director
Bengi Ünsal
 
Senior Management Team:
Director of Audiences and Business Growth – Natalia Fenyoe
Director of Finance and Operations – Serhan Vardarli
Head of Artistic Programme – Steven Cairns
Head of Learning and Engagement – Amelia Martin
Head of Operations and Visitor Services – Melanie Coles
People & Culture Manager – Moriom Choudhury


Board of Trustees

Wolfgang Tillmans (Chair) - Artist, Royal Academician and former Tate Trustee
Alia Al-Senussi - Senior Advisor, Internal Outreach Art Basel
Sepake Angiama - Artistic Director of Institute of International Visual Arts
Charles Asprey - Working with artists since the early 1990s
Michael Clayton - Director of Finance and Operations, The Geological Society
Nabihah Iqbal - Musician, producer, DJ and broadcaster from London.
David Kolbusz - Chief Creative Officer at Orchard
Reema Selhi - Head of Policy and International, Design and Artists Copyright Society (DACS)
Emily Sheffield – Global Comms VP and Former Editor of the Evening Standard
Maria Sukkar - Founder of ISelf Collection; sits on Tate International Council and Tate’s Middle Eastern Acquisition Committee and Photography Acquisition Committee
Tilda Swinton - Actor
Leopold Thun - Co-Founder and Director, Emalin
Steve Wills - Global Account Leader, Former Partner at Ernst and Young 

List of committees

Development Committee
Finance & Audit Committee
Programming Committee
Marcomms Committee
Ethics & Nominations Committee

You can find more details here:
register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk

Solicitors, corporate, commercial, employment and charity law
gunnercooke llp
1 Cornhill, London EC3V 3ND

Chartered accountants and statutory auditor
Sayer Vincent LLP
110 Golden Lane, London EC1Y 0TG