How We Work with Artists
Collaboration with artists is at the heart of everything we do.
Artists can create spaces that are playful, interactive and inclusive of different people, offering new and unusual ways of looking at a problem, interpreting an issue and beginning a discussion. Many of our collaborations with artists span many years and multiple projects.
Since 1996, KWMC has partnered with artists across a wide range of creative practices, forming meaningful connections in diverse and dynamic ways.
As a place-based arts organisation, our approach continues to evolve, enabling us to provide artists with opportunities for support, collaboration, and commissions. Below are some of the ways we work with artists:
Socially Engaged Art Practice
At KWMC, our work is rooted in socially engaged art practice. Being ‘socially engaged’ is about supporting people to do the things that they want to do, which may not necessarily be what is expected.
We commission socially engaged artists to work with local residents in ways that inform the artist’s practice and outcomes. Through this practice, local people are supported to share their own concerns and priorities. We celebrate local knowledge and value the expertise that every individual brings.
For example, in 2022, we commissioned artist Miriam Quick and artist T. Relly to transform Bristol’s air quality data into a dub track as part of our Slow the Smoke project.
Our regular programming, such as the Young People’s Programme or Creative Cuppa also provides opportunities for artists to engage directly with the community. We often invite artists to run workshops based on suggestions from participants.
Artist Residencies
We regularly commission artists to work with the community, creating impactful and thought-provoking artworks.
For example, in Spring 2024, we welcomed Myah Asha Jeffers for a residency at KWMC. Myah collaborated with local multicultural women, using photography, printmaking, sound, and textiles to explore the complexity of the diasporic experience (the journey of leaving one’s homeland).
The resulting artworks serve as blueprints for possible futures, reimagining notions of ‘home’ and ‘belonging’ through the lens of migration. Find out more about Myah’s residency from their perspective here.
Our current artists in residence are Rachael Clerke and Linzy Na Nakorn are running an exciting year-long programme called ‘Filwood in Motion.’ Their collective making and street action takes place as building works transform Filwood Broadway (in Knowle West) as part of the £14.5 million Levelling Up Fund. Find out more here: filwood-in-motion.com.
Myah Asha Jeffers (left) facilitating a self-portrait workshop with local group ‘We Are More’ at Springfield Community Allotments.
Collaboration
At KWMC, we frequently collaborate with artists to bring their projects to life. We also offer in-house expertise across a variety of disciplines, as well as access to tools and resources.
Visit our Neighbourhood Makerspace page for more information.
Test Space
With a wide variety of events, workshops, and exhibitions happening weekly at KWMC, we’re always open to hearing from artists who want to test a concept, workshop or idea with the community.
Get Involved
If you’re an artist interested in working with us at KWMC, check our Jobs & Opportunities page to see current openings.
If no opportunities are currently available, follow us on social media: Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, BlueSky, or subscribe to our monthly newsletter to stay informed about future opportunities.
Get in touch directly via our Contact Us page.
We particularly welcome creative, social or environmental justice artists who align with KWMC’s mission.