Creative call launched to ignite cultural growth

A new venture has launched aiming to drive cultural growth and regeneration across County Durham.

Into the Light has unveiled Creative Call.

The endeavour urges creatives, institutions, businesses, educators, funders and decision-makers to unite and create a stronger arts-led future.

Hosted by North East singer-songwriter and X Factor winner Joe McElderry, the launch event highlighted five key areas to tackle to achieve success – access, value, connection, community and innovation.

Julia Handelman-Smith, director at cultural partnership project Into the Light, said: “People across Durham have told us they’d like to see creative opportunities more visible and sustainable.

“They also asked for fair recognition for the value creative practitioners bring, more networking across the county and opportunities for peer support and engagement.

“They shared the realities of living and working in a rural county, where geography, transport and isolation create career barriers which are often overlooked.

“Our Creative Call explores practical ways we can address these challenges head-on.”

Joe added: “Growing up in the North East and building a career in music and theatre, I know how much talent exists across our region.

“But talent also needs opportunity, encouragement and people willing to open doors.

“I was proud to host Creative Call’s launch; it is practical, positive and shaped by the people who know the county’s creative scene best.”

Born from County Durham’s UK City of Culture 2025 bid, Into the Light has engaged with more than 19,000 participants and welcomed audiences of 126,000 since its inception.

It has also supported more than 1100 creative practitioners and freelancers, and delivered in excess of 1300 events throughout County Durham.

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