Parasol unit

Founded in December 2004 by art historian and curator Dr. Ziba Ardalan, Parasol unit foundation for contemporary art is a not-for-profit art institution that operates purely for the public benefit. Central to the Parasol unit philosophy is a total commitment to artists and their creative endeavour, an attitude which leads to a singular relationship developing between each exhibiting artist and the foundation.

Internationally recognised for its forward-thinking and challenging exhibition programme, Parasol unit has introduced a host of international artists to London’s public and has been instrumental in launching the careers of artists such as Michaël Borremans, Yang Fudong and Charles Avery.
Every year the foundation organises four challenging and thought-provoking exhibitions of works by international contemporary artists working in various media, holds artistic projects and gives awards and exhibition possibility to graduating students from a UK art school. The foundation also engages with the public and the neighbouring community through a full programme of educational events.

Parasol unit, like publicly funded institutions in London continuously strives to raise funds to cover its running costs and hopes to secure its existence for future generations.

Exhibiting artists are invited to create a limited edition artwork to be offered for sale by the foundation, with all proceeds going towards our exhibition and educational events programmes. A great chance to own affordable art, whilst contributing to the foundation’s constantly evolving programme.