By Jerome Whittingham, Stoke Creates
An Evening with Three Counties Artists was held at Burslem School of Art on Friday 23rd August.
The panel discussion, chaired by artist William Ntiamoah, brought together four young artists to explore the role of art in Stoke-on-Trent and the surrounding areas.
Organised by the Potteries Lunar Society, Arts Keele, and Stoke Exchange Forum (a Stoke Creates project), the Three Counties Open Art exhibition event delved into the significance of staying active in the local art scene, the challenges faced by emerging artists, and the future of arts communities in the region.
William was joined on the panel by artists Paige Sutton, Simone Rowley, and Eve Travis. The event was introduced by Nicky Twemlow.
Listen
Listen to the full discussion here, approx 55minutes:
Summary
Here are three key topics discussed during the panel:
1. The Importance of Art in Revitalising Stoke-on-Trent
The artists highlighted the vital role that art plays in revitalising the local area, which has a rich cultural heritage but is marked by post-industrial decline. Paige Sutton expressed her belief that art is essential for bringing life back to the city. She expressed that ‘Stoke’s got some beautiful architecture… it just needs art to bring it back to life’. This sentiment was echoed by other panelists, who emphasised that the creative efforts of local artists contribute significantly to the community’s cultural vibrancy. The discussion touched on how initiatives like murals and workshops have engaged people across different age groups, building a sense of pride and participation in the city’s cultural renewal.
2. Challenges for Emerging Artists
A significant portion of the discussion focused on the difficulties faced by emerging artists in gaining recognition and opportunities within the local art scene. Simone Rowley pointed out that while Stoke has many established artists, emerging talents often struggle to break through. The panelists agreed that there is a need for more opportunities that are specifically tailored to emerging artists, particularly those that offer financial support. Simone, another young artist, mentioned the struggle to balance the need to make a living with the pursuit of artistic opportunities.
3. Building and Sustaining Artistic Communities
The importance of community was a recurring theme throughout the discussion. Eve Travis, a mature student and artist, spoke about the value of having a supportive network, particularly for those who may feel isolated after finishing university. The panelists discussed the need for more accessible studio spaces and the role of organisations like Arts Keele and the Stoke Exchange Forum in facilitating these connections. The idea of establishing a community where artists can support one another and collaborate was seen as crucial for the sustainability of the local art scene.
In conclusion, the discussion at the Three Counties Open Art Exhibition underscored the challenges and opportunities for young artists in Stoke-on-Trent. The artists highlighted the need for greater support, both financially and in terms of community building, to ensure that the region’s artistic future is as vibrant and dynamic as its past.
The conversation ended on a hopeful note, with the panelists expressing a strong commitment to staying in the area and contributing to its cultural landscape.