Walsall Celebrates Creativity and Heritage with Exciting New Projects
Walsall Celebrates Creativity and Heritage with Exciting New Projects
Walsall is positioning itself as one of the most creative areas in the Black Country, with a host of innovative projects and collaborations shaping a vibrant cultural future. Following the success of the Maker Fest arts festival in September, organised by Walsall Council and Urban Hax, the borough is buzzing with creative energy.
From transforming empty shop spaces with art to hosting community-led heritage projects across neighbourhoods, culture is truly on the doorstep. Residents, businesses, and organisations are uniting to inspire creativity, foster local pride, and redefine Walsall’s identity through the arts.
Creative Partnerships Leading the Way
Commercial property landlords in the Saddler Centre and housing provider whg have opened their spaces to support resident artists, enabling creativity to thrive. The Walsall Makes initiative is amplifying the work of today’s makers to inspire the next generation, uniting communities and creative minds to build a sense of cultural confidence.
Juneau Projects, an acclaimed artist duo known for their interactive and community-focused work, have been awarded the prestigious Artist in Residency opportunity through a partnership between whg and Creative Black Country. This residency focuses on engaging social housing residents, particularly in older people’s schemes, to enhance well-being, reduce isolation, and develop creative confidence.
Heritage Projects on the Horizon
Over the next three years, Walsall residents will have the chance to bring local heritage stories to life through the Making Our Mark program, funded by the National Heritage Lottery Fund. Small grants and expert support will empower communities to celebrate and preserve their unique histories.
Exciting Announcements Ahead
Exclusive new partnerships with Creative Black Country, whg, and The National Gallery are set to be unveiled in January, promising even more opportunities for Walsall to shine as a hub of creativity and culture.
Upcoming Highlights
Temporary Public Art Installations at Park Place, Townend House, and Saddler Shopping Centre – December 2024
Making Our Mark: Community Heritage Programme (2024–2027)
National Gallery Comes to Walsall – March 2025
Maker Fest – 2025
Join Us
Get involved and celebrate the season at a festive gathering on Wednesday, 18th December, from 3–5 pm on the second floor of the Saddler Shopping Centre. Enjoy a tour of the Meanwhile Maker Space and learn more about the exciting projects shaping Walsall’s creative landscape.
This work is coordinated by Creative Black Country, with support from the National Heritage Lottery Fund, West Midlands Combined Authority (Commonwealth Games Legacy Fund), Arts Council England, whg, Walsall Council and One Walsall.