Creative Central NCL Launch
Creative Central NCL unveiled its plans today to make Newcastle a place where creatives can make a living without having to decamp to London or Manchester.
The project, part of the Cultural and Creative Zone initiative funded by North of Tyne Combined Authority (North East Combined Authority as of May 2024) is described as an economic development project, anchored around culture and creativity.
Its purpose is to put an end to the talent-drain, making sure that anyone who chooses a creative career has a place in the city.
Creative Central NCL aims
Creative Central NCL, is managed by a team at Newcastle City Council who are aiming to direct funding and support to artists and creative businesses to help them set up shop in Newcastle City Centre.
- Funding and Grants are available for a range of projects that will enhance the creative population in Newcastle City Centre
- Business Support helps artists and creative businesses to commercialise effectively.
- Skills Development offer training and support for artists and creative businesses covering everything from starting a business or artistic practice to growing an established entity.
- Workspaces and studios are in short supply and the project aims to work with landlords and building owners to transform spaces in central Newcastle so they are suitable and affordable for independent artists.
Skills & Knowledge Pilot Projects
To date, Creative Central NCL has awarded £350,000 to 12 projects all aiming to give artists and creative professionals the skills they need to make a living in Newcastle, without taking on second or third jobs or living precariously.
The first round of funded projects chosen to develop skills and knowledge among the artistic and creative community, will support over 600 creatives, artists and freelancers over the coming 12 months.
- Beacon Films, Fresh Creatives
- Creative Heritage Studios & Newcastle University Business School, Commercialise Without Compromise
- Generator, A new pathway
- Helix Arts, Artists’ Agency Newcastle
- Junction Point, Art with Purpose
- Moving Arts Management, Open Inbox, Micro Commissions & Reviewers Programme
- Newcastle Arts Centre, Brass Tacks
- North East Cultural Freelancers, Cultural Leadership Programme
- The Prince’s Trust, Get Creative
- Project North East, The Sustainable Creative
Future plans
Amongst future plans for Creative Central NCL are;
- a print and textile arts project by artists Shiori Naruse and Nick Christie with the residents of Tyneside Foyer, who provide safe and secure accommodation for homeless 16 to 24-year-old
- part-funding a large capital project to develop a new creative hub on the Scotswood Road with Boho Arts who have already raised £42,932 as part of a crowdfunding campaign to support the development
Find out more about Creative Central NCL opportunities for funding here.