Arts & Culture
There is a longstanding aspiration for a community art centre in Blandford to meet a variety of needs. The DT11 Partnership is trying to draw these strands together into a coherent proposal, and then work to see what premises could become available, and what funding could be reached or raised. At this stage nothing is ruled out (nor in) – the example of the Exchange at Sturminster Newton may or may not be like something that Blandford with nearly three times the population needs, wants or could maintain.
The draft of the Community Strategic Plan currently has the following statement – Arts and Culture. (p 20)
'In spite of the fact that there are more artists here than in any other part of North Dorset there is no centre in which to display work or to assist with its creation or teaching. Young people lack creative stimuli of any kind. There is an urgent need for a properly equipped venue where people of all ages can both engage in and view theatre, dance, music and film as well as the visual arts. A community arts centre could have permanent but changing displays of art, sculpture etc; drop in practical art & music workshops for all ages, kids theatre workshops, young peoples issue based theatre or videos (such as the “Clean up Blandford” video) and provide outreach work with halls in the surrounding villages. Work of this nature particularly when it reaches disadvantaged groups (such as people with learning difficulties, long-term unemployed or young offenders) is valuable in developing confidence, self-esteem, pride of place and help in gaining access to further education.'
A group to consider options, possible premises and other issues is being convened under the auspices of the DT11 Partnership
Please contact Keith Yarwood if you would like to be involved or help.
Email kyarwood@waitrose.com, or phone the DT11 Forum Office on 01258 489998