Following the success of Round 1 of our Community Commissions, where local artists, groups and venues delivered creative events and activities rooted in the heart of Ashfield, we are delighted to announce the successful recipients of Round 2!
Ashfield Creates has been shaped through ongoing conversations with local communities. Our aim is to empower artists, organisations and groups to deliver great arts and creative opportunities across the district. The Community Commissions programme is central to this work, helping creativity grow and flourish throughout Ashfield.
For Round 2 we received a fantastic range of applications proposing imaginative, community-centered projects, and today we are thrilled to announce the brilliant commissions who have been successful in this round – meet them below!
Walking 4 Hope
A mental health charity helping adults, children, and families boost their wellbeing through mindful walks, peer support groups, and creative arts and crafts.
Borderland Folk
Featuring Martin Carey, Al Rate, Nick Morland, they perform traditional folk and self-penned songs of local folklore and history with an emphasis on storytelling.
Portland Charity
Portland delivers excellent programmes to inspire and empower people with disabilities to live more independent, fulfilling lives. Through their Newsart Activities programme, they host a wide range of events and activities that range from weekly sports and arts sessions to monthly club nights and family fun days. The programme is open to the wider community and is designed to be as accessible as possible to those with SEND.
Academy Transformation Trust Further Education (ATTFE)
ATTFE delivers high-quality learning opportunities to communities across Ashfield and beyond. They have extensive experience in managing community projects, engaging diverse groups, and promoting lifelong learning through creativity and collaboration.
We can’t wait to share more about the free events and activities being created by our amazing Round 2 commission recipients. These local artists, makers and community groups are bringing fresh, creative ideas to Ashfield, and we hope everyone will come along, get involved and support the brilliant talent growing right here in our district.
In January 2026, we will be opening Round 3, giving local artists, community groups and organisations another chance to apply for funding to bring creative experiences to their communities. There will be 10 Rounds of commissions in total running up to Autumn 2027. To stay in the loop, sign up to our newsletter and follow us on social media.
