Celebrating Creativity and Community: Hertfordshire Libraries' Artist in Residence Programme Concludes

Hertfordshire County Council, in collaboration with the UK Government, has successfully concluded a two-year programme of artistic residencies in libraries across the county. The My Story: Artist in Residence programme, funded by Arts Council England, has brought together local artists and community members to create art projects that showcase the voice of the local community. The programme has been a resounding success, attracting over 6,200 people from 22 communities and hosting over 200 events.

Key Takeaways:

• The My Story: Artist in Residence programme, funded by Arts Council England, ran for two years, hosting artistic residencies in libraries across Hertfordshire.
• The programme brought together local artists and community members to create art projects that championed the voice of the local community.
• Over 6,200 people from 22 communities attended more than 200 events throughout the programme.
• Special care was taken to make events accessible, with most events being free of charge and designed for people with disabilities.
• Attendees reported positive impacts, including increased confidence, deeper connections with their local communities, and a desire to visit the library more often.
• The programme celebrated the creativity and diversity of Hertfordshire's local communities and highlighted the importance of libraries as safe and inclusive spaces.

Statistics:

• 6,200 people attended over 200 events throughout the My Story: Artist in Residence programme.
• 22 communities across Hertfordshire participated in the programme.
• Events were held in libraries and other community spaces throughout Hertfordshire.
• The programme ran for two years, with the final event taking place on Saturday 19 July at Welwyn Garden City Library.

Sources:

• Hertfordshire County Council
• UK Government
• Arts Council England