'We're not like anyone else' says community arts leader as Sheffield makes City of Culture shortlist
“The strength of culture in Sheffield is in its diversity and collaboration”
Sheffield is not like anywhere else, reckons one of the city’s prominent arts group’s leaders, following the announcement it has made the UK City of Culture shortlist.
Linda Bloomfield, director at RivelinCo, who run arts events at venues including parks and empty shops, was delighted to see the city including on the list of four, alongside Blackpool, Milton Keynes and Wrexham.
Her organisation has recently run projects including the creation of a giant interactive trout, to mark the cleaning up of Sheffield’s rivers, which was taken around parks in the city this year; and repairs workshops in parks.
She explained why the shortlist, which means there will be at least £125,000 put into the city for cultural projects even it it does not get the £10 million earmarked for the winner, is important
She said: "Sheffield's creatives, cultural organisations, and communities came together to build an ambitious, vibrant vision for our city of culture, and it’s fantastic to see those ideas shortlisted.
"The strength of culture in Sheffield is in its diversity and collaboration: from the large scale to the grassroots, we are unlike anywhere else. We now have an opportunity to collectively build on this work and potentially make many of the brilliant ideas a reality, which is such an exciting opportunity for our city!"
Sheffield's bid celebrates the city's rich industrial heritage, outstanding natural environment and reputation as a place where creativity thrives. It aims to demonstrate how culture can help create opportunities, strengthen communities and support economic growth across the city - from Grassroots to Global.
Councillor Fran Belbin, Leader of Sheffield Council, described the city’s inclusion in the shortlist as a proud moment for everyone who has helped shape the city’s bid.
She said: "Sheffield is a city built on creativity, innovation and community spirit.
“From our world-renowned music heritage and vibrant independent arts scene to our festivals, libraries, theatres, museums, galleries and grassroots creativity, culture is part of who we are.
"This recognition reflects the incredible talent, energy and ambition that exists across our city. We look forward to taking our bid to the next stage and continuing to showcase everything that makes Sheffield such a special place."