Why do you think people in the South Holland and Boston areas don’t get more involved in the arts?

From feedback that I have had, when researching exactly this question, here are some of the reasons given:

• I’m not artistic – I can’t do it/don’t have the skills/no good a learning something new ( confidence issues)
• Its not the sort of thing I usually do…. ( fear of trying something different)
• I can’t make every session, so no point in trying ( committment problems – often due to schedules)
• I ‘d love to be involved but don’t have time/ child care/ transport ( logistic)
• I can’t afford it ( finances)
• I won’t know anyone there ( social nervousness at going on theri own)

What do you think should happen to encourage people to get more involved in the arts locally?

I think the information given about any projects shoud be very clear – that EVERYONE can do it, that its affordable and that people can dip in and out iof projects, don’t have to committ to every session ( i found this worked well to get people to give it a go). we need to let folks know that they will be guided through anything new or tricky and there will be room for those with more confidence or skills to grow as well.
if transport can be provided for any activities that are hard to get to, that would really help, and also it is good to deliver in hard to reach places, where there is no public transport – to help address issues of accessibility. I think the main message should be that the arts are for EVERYONE – from beginners, to advanced – and all stages inbetween.

What ideas do you have for exciting, innovative ways to get more people involved in the arts in the area? Please also estimate how much it might cost.

I’d love to work on a cross-arts project – where several artforms, particulalrly those that aren’t usually mixed – are brought together . Also cross generational projects, as well as projects that involve different communities sharing ideas and cultural arts.

I’d estimate workshops for a one off cost from £ 150 /£ 250 with one facilitator/venue hire/materials/promotion

I’d love to put on a South Lincs musical production, created and written, designed ( sets, costumes, make up, hair, props, artwork etc. etc.) and performed by local residents – new and old – maybe with a theme about heritage – both local and new arrivals heritage, and sharing and showing off different nationalities artwork and creative ideas…..

cost – how long is a peice of string….but a year long project for example, with 50+ workshops/rehearsals etc, + material, + perfromance costs , evaluation sessions etc. etc – I’d estimate a project like this to cost around £25K – £30K