Devon and Cornwall’s creative communities invited to show that “home is where the art is”

A playful and innovative set of new small-scale arts commissions, designed to harness Devon and Cornwall’s creative talents by showing that ‘home is where the arts is’, have been launched.

Arts and Culture, University of Exeter has partnered with the Exeter Phoenix, Kaleider and Exeter Northcott Theatre to unveil this new initiative to encourage freelance artists across Devon and Cornwall to unleash their creativity - using inspiration found only in their homes.

The project, called ‘Hyperlocal’, is offering 10 micro-commissions for artists working with any discipline - be it animation, written or spoken word, painting, dance or a mixture – worth £500 each.

The only criteria are that freelance artists must be based in either Devon and Cornwall and creative conception must be inspired and carried out in their immediate domestic environment. Work generated from the commission will be shared on project partner websites, digital communications such as e-newsletters as well as social media platforms for all to enjoy.

Applications for the commissions close on 5pm on Tuesday 7th April, with the selected projects announced on the 14th April.

Sarah Campbell, Associate Director for Arts and Culture at the University of Exeter said: “The Covid-19 pandemic is such an extreme situation, and sometimes overwhelming. We are trying to adapt to this new normal and are keen to keep collaborating with our peers in the arts community and offer creative opportunities to artists and makers.

“In such uncertain times, we are hoping that Hyperlocal will provide some welcome inspiration and playfulness for contributors and audiences alike.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the generosity and ambition of our project partners, who have all worked so quickly and kindly to make this happen. We’re thrilled to be part of this project and can’t wait to share the amazing results”

Claire Horrocks, Film Programmer at Exeter Phoenix added: “While the world outside changes before our very eyes it is important to us that new partnerships are formed and opportunities are shared so the creative community can continue to thrive. It is inspiring to be part of something positive in this difficult time.”

Seth Honnor, Artistic Director at Kaleider welcomed the scheme, saying “We really welcome Arts and Culture’s invitation for us to be involved in this joyful programme at a difficult time for everybody. This is one of several initiatives we’re working on to support artists, who we need more than ever in these challenging times. We’re looking forward to reading all the applications and sharing the winning commissions.”

Helen Bovey, Talent Development Producer at the Exeter Northcott Theatre also welcomed the new scheme saying: "Exeter Northcott are really pleased to join together with Arts and Culture, Exeter Phoenix and Kaleider to be part of the Hyperlocal commissions.

“Artist support is especially important in this difficult time, and we are pleased to be able to be part of this creative offer which responds to our current situation and enables artists in Devon to keep making and respond to both this situation and their environment.”

For more information and to apply please visit https://bit.ly/HyperlocalCallout