Pioneering programme supports fundamental shift in approach to diversity

7 Nov 2016 12:45 PM

Four independent creative practitioners have been paired with cultural organisations across the south west to develop the diversity and inclusivity of the organisation, their artistic programme and the audiences they serve.

The Agents for Change programme is supported by the Arts Council and was created to develop long-term sustained change in diversity in the arts and cultural sector. It forms part of our wider Creative Case for Diversity work which is based on our passionate commitment to fund art and culture that genuinely reflects the full diversity of contemporary England.

The four artists Alice Holland, Mena Fombo, Akulah Agbami and Viv Gordon will be working with organisations from our National Portfolio and have been matched with the organisations - based on their skills, expertise and passion - to help the arts organisations to realise their full potential.

The participating cultural organisations are The Bike Shed in Exeter, Bridport Arts Centre in Dorset, MAYK in Bristol and Salisbury International Arts Festival.

Viv Gordon will be working with Salisbury International Arts Festival. She says: “My offer centres on developing access and inclusion for artists and audiences with mental health needs. People with mental health issues come from every demographic group and are the largest disabled population in the UK but are often overlooked in the arts sector outside of a therapy context.

Click here for full press release