Creative organisations sought to deliver ambitious programme

Grimsby Creates will fund up to four major creative activity projects which will take place in Grimsby over the next two years.  

The four funded projects could include one-off events, or a series of activities, artists’ residences or public art.  The vital aim is that creative work is ambitious, and of a scale and quality which hasn’t been seen in Grimsby before.

From the proposals, it is expected that a creative programme of free activities and events will happen throughout town centre spaces, within heritage buildings and found spaces throughout Grimsby town centre. 

The aim of this programme will be to celebrate shared pride in local origin, heritage, food and future in new, exciting and innovative ways, and increase participation in creative activity.

The four key themes for the creative programme are:

• Origins: local legends, myths inspired by Grimsby’s unique heritage and place, based on telling the story of one of the legends of Grimsby’s origin the story of ‘Grim and Havelock’.  
• Food: Grimsby is nationally and internationally renowned for its food and specifically food linked to the sea. This presents an exciting platform to increase focus on Grimsby as a town that is still a key area for the food industry.
• Heritage: Our heritage as a fishing port, including all the associated heritage assets in the dock area have a significant place in Grimsby’s story of life and place.
• Future: Grimsby has huge significance with the renewable energy sector through its relationship with major international organisations.

The total budget for the creative programme will be more than £400,000, with activities to be delivered between 2021 and 2023.

Councillor Callum Procter, portfolio holder for economic growth, housing and tourism, said: “We’ve lots of exciting plans and ideas already in the pipeline, but we need creative people from across the borough, and beyond, to help us and get involved. Through the Cultural Development Fund, we want to encourage organisations to come forward collaboratively to bring ambitious, fun and engaging activities to Grimsby town centre in 2021 and beyond. 

“The last year has been very challenging, especially for the creative sector, where activities and events have been postponed. But this time has allowed creative organisations to innovate and engage with audiences in different ways. We are looking for ideas that capitalise on this innovation, encouraging local people to get involved in cultural activities.”

If you’re interested in getting involved, visit the tendering portal online at www.yortender.co.uk, and search for reference DN521868.

The tender opens today, Friday 12 February and closes at midday on Wednesday 17 March.

“Grimsby Creates” has been launched to provide an umbrella brand for the cultural activity in Grimsby over the next three years, being funded through the Cultural Development Fund (CDF) money.

The CDF programme, funded by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and administered by Arts Council England, is providing a unique opportunity to transform Grimsby into a vibrant town centre where heritage and creativity are enjoyed. 

For further details about the Grimsby Creates Programme, please email grimsbycreates@nelincs.gov.uk or find out more online at www.grimsbycreates.co.uk.

People may also be interested in Spark Grimsby’s ‘In Conversation With’ event on 18 February at 12.30pm where three local speakers will share their collaboration and partnership successes with an opportunity to ask questions of the panel.  To find out more, visit www.sparkgrimsby.co.uk/spark-grimsby-events/

ENDS