East Durham Creates

East Durham Creates is a programme set up to try out new ways of getting more local people involved in something creative. It’s about trying new things, building on what’s already happening, learning what works – and what doesn’t – and pulling together to bring about long term change in East Durham.

After an ambitious start (including a festival with more than 40 events over 20 days in 30 venues!) we asked people what they thought. More than three quarters of people who responded were from East Durham. With their help, we’re making some changes – there’ll be a year round programme of things to see and do and more ways for people to get involved, from coming up with ideas, working with artists and running events, to training and volunteering opportunities. Or just simply coming along to see, experience and (hopefully!) be surprised by some amazing art.

Whether we’re commissioning new work from community groups or international artists, East Durham Creates projects will always be inspired by things that local people have told us matter to them – the people, stories and heritage that are unique to our area.

We know what we’re trying to do will take time, but by working with a network of local partners including schools and colleges, community centres, local businesses and transport providers to support grass-roots cultural activity and build local capacity through investing in skills development and training we are laying the foundations for long term change.

Have a look around Facebook for things to see and do, or ways to get involved, or get in touch to find out more.