Reflecting on the Artist Takeover Event
“Where Art and People Came Together”
The Prism Artist Takeover was a vibrant, two-day celebration of creativity that brought together music, sound, visual art, and live performances. Held at Central Methodist Hall in Carlisle, the event marked the culmination of a pioneering pilot artist residency and training programme. This initiative, launched in October 2024, exemplified Prism’s commitment to fostering artistic talent and championing inclusive arts practices across West Cumberland.
A Collaborative Training Residency
The Prism Artist Takeover was more than just an event; it was the result of months of dedication and collaboration. The residency paired five emerging trainee artists with four experienced creative mentors to develop new skills in inclusive arts practice. This unique initiative provided bursaries to the artists, enabling them to fully immerse themselves in the programme and focus on creative growth.
Working closely with the Prism Studio Programmes team, the artists engaged in an intensive journey of skill-building, creative exploration, and professional development. The residency mentors—Kim Hodgson, Jeremy Bradfield, Rosie Galloway Smith, and Jack McNeill—brought their expertise in inclusive practice to guide and inspire the next generation of artists. Meanwhile, the trainee artists—Karen Whybrow, Catherine Quilter, Nanette Madan, Jessie McMeekin, and Ben Taylor—embraced the opportunity to refine their conceptual and practical approaches, laying a strong foundation for their future work in the arts.
A Celebration of Creativity: December 6th & 7th
The residency culminated in a spectacular two-day sharing event that showcased the incredible work produced during the programme. On Friday, 6 December, attendees were welcomed to the Opening Night, where they met the artists, enjoyed refreshments, participated in a raffle, and explored the Prism Shop filled with unique creations.
On Saturday, 7 December, the excitement continued with an All-Day Sharing Event. Guests immersed themselves in multisensory installations, joined interactive panels, and took part in creative workshops. The event highlighted the innovative approaches to learning and collaboration fostered through the residency, leaving attendees inspired by the powerful role inclusive arts can play in bringing people together.
Looking Back: The Impact of the Prism Artist Takeover
This free and inclusive event drew art enthusiasts, supporters, and curious community members alike. Central Methodist Hall became a space where creativity and stories flourished, reinforcing Prism’s mission to create a society of art without barriers.
The Prism Artist Takeover demonstrated the potential of inclusive arts to create meaningful connections, foster understanding, and drive innovation. As we reflect on this journey, we celebrate the achievements of our residency team and look forward to seeing how their experiences will shape the future of inclusive arts practice in Cumberland and beyond.
The Prism Artist Takeover was proudly funded by the UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund, whose support made this ambitious programme possible. We remain deeply grateful for their contribution to advancing our mission of fostering inclusive arts practices across West Cumberland.
Stay connected with Prism to learn more about upcoming projects and initiatives that continue to push the boundaries of creativity and inclusion in the arts.
