Allenheads Contemporary Arts is a rural venue that provides opportunities for the development of new ideas and work. Established in 1994 by Alan Smith and Helen Ratcliffe ACA works from an old Victorian Schoolhouse situated on a steep hill overlooking the village of AllenheadsAllenheads in Northumberland. From here we develop, commission and present innovative projects, disseminating the results to a wide audience, through web and broadcast projects, publications, symposia and exhibitions. Over the years we have built a varied interpretation of the environment through a wide-ranging programme of research. At the schoolhouse we have a residential studio and exhibition facilities. In July 2007 ACA took over Allenheads old village shop and post office. Located in the centre of the village, the venue is primarily used as an open studio and exhibition space. It has also housed performances, workshops and symposia