Made in Peterborough

Made in Peterborough, the first Citizen Power commission, is underway! Arts collective Encounters were found as the result of a search for artists with a strong interest and sensitivity to the singularity of a particular place. They are quick to see the qualities with fresh outside eyes. This became very clear in their observations and questions as we went on a ‘tour’ around the city and the surrounding area with Julie Rivett and Graeme Clark. To hear a conversation between, on the one side, people who have been living and breathing Peterborough for many years, and three people who have never been to the city ever in their lives, was fascinating in that this combination of insider and outsider immediately yielded insights and ideas that gave the assurance of a productive partnership as it now widens.

If anyone thought that artists live in an unconnected world, Encounters quickly disproved this – through their combined experience they are down to earth about the challenges and issues that any 21^st century city is experiencing. We talked about everything – from fly tipping and gang
masters to the plans for Hampton and Great Haddon and the welcoming feel of Central Park.

The artists who make up Encounters will be regularly contributing to the site and we will be introducing them to as many of you as are interested over the coming weeks. Please get in touch with me if you would like further information Michaela Crimmin.