The online platform which makes works available and easily searchable operates under the HMRC Conditional Exemption Incentive scheme, allowing the public to locate works and arrange viewings. So far 36,000 works are listed on the site.
HMRC’s tax-exemption scheme allows artworks of exceptional cultural value to be offset against tax liabilities provided they be kept in the public domain.
Through better use of data, Open Inheritance Art hopes to support this initiative by bringing this culturally rich and private collection closer to the public.
“We have worked hard to mine the data so we can attempt to highlight where works are made permanently publicly available in National Trust properties or other stately homes,” said Jo Pugh, founder of Open Inheritance Art.
He adds: “We’re also calling upon art lovers to contact private owners through our website to arrange access and encourage a widescale digitisation of these important cultural assets.”
The project is funded by the Open Data Institute (ODI) Showcase, which supports the use of data to positively impact society and users of Open Inheritance Art are encouraged to update and correct data where possible.
