Cultural activities: first commissions announced


Photo by Ingrid PopExperience Newquay, which aims to encourage a resilient year-round visitor economy, has awarded grants to deliver cultural events during the winter months, and shortlisted six proposals to develop ideas for permanent installations across the town centre.

Together the selected permanent installations and creative activities will provide a cultural event programme for residents and visitors to enjoy during the traditionally quieter months.

Following an open call, a panel made of Newquay community representatives reviewed the proposals using criteria informed directly from consultation with residents and business owners where themes including “community, history, events, people” were identified. As a result,

Alma Artspace will deliver a vibrant winter arts programme that will connect people to the town and local landscape through exhibitions, walks, talks and workshops. It will bring artists, curators, storytellers, musicians and makers (from Cornwall and beyond) to brighten the winter months, inspire the community and welcome residents and visitors to explore Newquay’s cultural potential.


Photo by Ingrid Pop


To the Moon and Back by Rob Mennear will combine dance, theatre, sound installation and projection to create immersive experiences that entice and surprise. Coinciding with the super full moon, this evening experience will invite people to explore spaces in the town centre that have been transformed and co-created with residents, bringing stories of Newquay’s community to life.


Moving Portraits by Rob Mennear (Part of Wide Open Autumn Season 2023) Photo by Emily Appleton


Six proposals for permanent installations have also been shortlisted. The projects include ideas for sculpture, graffiti, light installations and more. Each proposal will be developed further and will be reviewed by the panel. Two projects will go ahead and be announced in the spring.

Louis Gardner, Cornwall Council cabinet portfolio holder for economy and local Member for Newquay Central and Pentire, said: "Experience Newquay’s cultural programme is putting community at its heart, from the co-creation of the criteria to the make-up of the judging panel. Newquay is on track to have an enviable programme of cultural activities and installations, which will inject a fresh energy into the town centre for residents and visitors alike.”

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