SEVERN Arts and Worcestershire County Council have selected 20 Worcestershire artists for a new grant to create a piece of work inviting participation and connectivity.
During a challenging time for Worcestershire’s freelance artists and small arts and cultural organisations, artists had the chance to apply for the new creative grant of £300 to create a piece of work to be shared and enjoyed digitally and based on the theme #CreativeConnections.
From the proposals, 20 projects have been selected. Many different artforms are represented in the selection including dance, animation, child-led learning, embroidery and poetry and several of them invite active participation to create the final piece of work.
The artists will be working to the deadline of the end of May to present their final pieces of work digitally. Invitations to participate will be shared as far and wide as possible throughout May.
Worcester artist Karen Stone said: “It is both inspiring and reassuring that Severn Arts have had the foresight to offer recognition and financial support to local artists during this time of isolation.
“Art can transcend the physical limitations we are all having to conform to. The sharing of artists’ ideas and works across digital media can bring pleasure, encourage participation and create dialogue, aiding a better sense of wellbeing.
“I am delighted as an artist I can contribute in some way,” she added.
Severn Arts chief Laura Worsfold said: “In these uncertain times, Severn Arts is pleased to be able to support Worcestershire’s cultural sector in a small way, to showcase our wonderful talented artists and to offer the public some joy and light in what is a very dark time for some.
“The arts are providing some brilliant work online to keep us all going. We hope these 20 projects will show people how much of a contribution Worcestershire’s artists make to enrich and inspire us to be creative and hopeful for the future.”
Coun Lucy Hodgson, cabinet member for Communities at Worcestershire County Council added: “I’m really pleased we have been able to offer this grant funding to our county’s creatives and support the arts sector in these difficult times.
“During these testing times of isolation, getting involved in artistic and creative projects and activities is a great way to combat loneliness and have some fun.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the finished products displayed in the digital showcase in the summer,” she added.
Work will be shared throughout May through Severn Arts social media accounts @SevernArts and website.
Visit www.severnarts.org.uk for more.
