Super Culture Champions Participatory Arts at Citizens’ Assembly
On October 12th, Super Culture took part in the region-wide ‘Citizens for Culture’ project, presenting evidence to the Citizens’ Assembly.
This democratic process is setting out to create an inclusive cultural plan for the South West, impacting regions like North Somerset. At its heart is a ‘jury’ of residents from the West of England Combined Authority, currently gathering insights from a wide array of experts—artists, practitioners, and local government officials—to answer one core question: “What would culture and creativity look like in the West of England if they were for everyone?”
Super Culture Director Fiona Matthews and Executive Director George Tivenan-Densley presented the evidence on the theme of ‘Skills & Economy’.
Our presentation explored the important role of place-based and participatory arts as a driving force behind wellbeing, local pride, and economic resilience in our communities. And, we didn’t just talk theory; we proudly shared examples from Super Culture’s work:
- Growth and Recognition: We detailed the journey of Super Culture, from the local roots of Theatre Orchard to becoming a nationally recognised National Portfolio Organisation (one of only two in North Somerset).
- Meeting People Where They Are: We explained our collaborative approach, working with partners both inside and outside the cultural sector to genuinely ‘meet people where they are’ in our communities.
- Building extraordinary moments on the streets of Weston: We showcased how our ambitious local, national and international programming such as our landmark outdoor arts festival, Whirligig is a powerful tool for forging connections, fostering happiness, and strengthening community cohesion.
- Tackling Health Inequalities: We our innovative partnership with University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, using arts and culture to directly address pressing health inequalities.
- Work-Based Skills: We demonstrated how we create real opportunities for people to gain work-based skills through projects like Culture Makers (our volunteer scheme) and partnerships with stakeholders such as Youth Justice and Refugees Welcome North Somerset to develop meaningful work placements for underrepresented members of the community
We were truly thrilled to share these stories of success and we are immensely proud of the many communities, groups, artists, and individuals who contribute to this. We are delighted that Weston-super-Mare is recognised as a place to learn from when it comes to inclusive and impactful practise.
This was a fantastic opportunity to show how culture, when it is truly for everyone, is an investment in a thriving, skilled, and resilient future for the West of England.
The lead image shows Smoosh, performing at Super Culture’s Whirligig festival. Photo credit Paul Blakemore.