Five artists take up residence in Rotherham

Rotherham residents will have the opportunity to work with five professional artists to explore how creativity, art and culture could benefit their community thanks to Flux Rotherham.

Flux Rotherham, the towns new Creative People and Places project, has appointed artists Mandy Keating, Rich Wiles, Rosie Carnall and Geotone’s Andy and Paul, to work in four areas of the borough including Maltby, Wath upon Dearne, and two central wards.

Helen Jones, Director of Flux Rotherham, said: “We were inundated with responses to our artist call out and we’ve selected five with different specialisms including writing, visual arts, photography, and sonic audio experiences. They’ll co-produce creative work with local people which will be showcased this spring.”

 The artists will be supported by the newly formed Flux Rotherham engagement team. Alison Somerset-Ward, Shahin Shah, and Katie Matthews joined the programme in January and have already started to forge links with local groups, organisations, and residents.

Helen continued: “Alison, Shahin and Katie are a brilliant addition to the team. They all love talking to people and are really keen to make connections in communities. They’ll be helping local people to commission and co-create extraordinary cultural programmes and unforgettable events that will inspire communities across Rotherham. It’s such an exciting time for us and, as ever, we’d love to hear from local residents and creatives who would like to be involved in our programming and activities.”

In February half-term, Flux Rotherham is co-producing its first major event in partnership with Rotherham Council’s Culture and Events team; a skate festival, giant selfie painting robot, music and workshops held over four days in the town centre. All as part of the wider launch of the Children’s Capital of Culture Programme.

More information can be found on the Flux Rotherham temporary website https://flux-rotherham.mailchimpsites.com/

Artist Photo Collage: From top left corner (clockwise): Geotone, Mandy Keating, Rich Wiles and Rosie Carnall.

Flux Team Photo: Katie Matthews, Alison Somerset Ward, Helen Jones, Aga Michalik, Shahin Shah.