spudVOICES
Local people shaping creativity in the New Forest
What should SPUD do next? Who gets to take part? And how can creativity make a difference to life in the New Forest?
spudVOICES is a new group of local people who will help answer those questions. Members will bring their experiences and ideas to SPUD, helping shape our exhibitions, creative activities, community programmes and future plans.
You do not need to be an artist or know anything about the arts. We want to hear from people who care about their communities and would like a say in what happens here.
What will members do?
Together, spudVOICES members will:
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Tell us what matters to people living in and around the New Forest.
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Help identify what makes it difficult for people to take part in creative activities.
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Suggest ideas for exhibitions, workshops, projects and events.
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Help make choices about selected artists and creative commissions.
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Influence how spudWORKS and SPUD’s programmes develop.
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Share ideas that can inform wider conversations with our local partners.
We want members to see how their ideas affect decisions. We will report back on what has changed and explain when an idea cannot be taken forward.
Who can join?
We welcome expressions of interest from people aged 16 or over who live, work, study or have a strong connection to the New Forest.
We hope to bring together around 8-10 people of different ages, backgrounds and experiences, including people who have not previously had a say in arts or cultural decisions. You are welcome whether you already take part in SPUD activities or have never visited us before.
You will be sharing your own perspective. You will not be expected to speak for an entire community or group.
What is involved?
spudVOICES will meet approximately 4-5 times during its first year. Meetings will usually last around 1.5 hours and take place at spudWORKS in Sway, with ways to join remotely where possible.
Members can claim £50 for each meeting attended. We will also cover reasonable travel and caring costs if required. We can discuss other support that would make it easier for you to take part.
We will send information ahead of meetings and make space for different ways of contributing. You do not need experience of meetings or committees.
Interested in joining?
Please complete the short form below
