Artists to benefit from long-term support in North Tyneside
Artists to benefit from long-term support in North Tyneside
Helix Arts, based on Saville Street at the heart of the emerging North Shields Cultural Quarter, has launched a long-term programme of support for artists in North Tyneside.
The initiative, called Artists’ Agency, has been successfully piloted for 12 months and involves mentorship, networking opportunities and peer-to-peer support.
It has been welcomed by artists and is seen as a way of further strengthening the credentials of North Shields as a creative hub.
Cheryl Gavin, director of Helix Arts, says: “We’ve listened to over 70 artists and creative businesses to truly understand the challenges they face.
“Our new programme reflects these insights by offering participant-centred, flexible support.
“It’s designed to equip artists with the tools they need to overcome obstacles and build lasting careers.”
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She says she’s thrilled North Tyneside Council have offered long-term funding for the programme following the pilot scheme.
“Our goal is to help local artists grow, share their expertise and build sustainable careers.”
The programme will provide 70 participants with at least 12 hours of support over the next three years and there’s potential to extend the programme beyond North Tyneside.
Jackie Sewell, a participant in the pilot scheme, spoke highly of its benefits, saying she had received invaluable advice and support through working with a mentor.
“The sessions allowed me to meet and connect with new and interesting people from the area, some of whom I have since worked with. Through these sessions a great support network was created.”
North Shields Cultural Quarter is funded by the council through the North East Combined Authority.
Helix Arts, which receives regular funding from Arts Council England as one of its National Portfolio organisations, traces its history back to 1983 when it was launched as Artists’ Agency.
The name of the new programme is a nod to the early years of the organisation which became a charity in 1987, dedicated then as now to supporting artists and making creative activity accessible to all.
Visit the website for more information.