Investing in the next generation of young talent
From the illustrated streets of Brixton and Peckham’s vibrant night life to the many historic museums around Dulwich, creativity and culture makes South London a unique and special place.
And so many household names spent formative years here, like AJ Tracey, Stormzy and Adele.
This has not come to be by accident.
A key part of South London’s status as a creative powerhouse is its cultural organisations.
They create opportunities for local people and artists, often collaborating with local authorities, schools and businesses to harness the social and economic impacts that culture generates.
At the end of last year, Arts Council England – which is the national development agency for creativity and culture – announced that more than 250 organisations in London will receive a share of £431.2m over three years starting this month.
We believe that everyone should have access to high-quality art and culture no matter where they live, rather than having to travel to Zone 1.
And as the area director for London, I wanted to prioritise children and young people.
In Wandsworth and Nine Elms, we’re investing in World Heart Beat Music Academy.
It offers musical opportunities and lessons for young people aged five-25 – and free instruments are even available if needed.
Soon to be reopening in a new venue in Peckham Square, Peckham Platform is a creative and educational art gallery.
Our funding is ensuring it can expand its skills development opportunities.
In Croydon, we’re funding theatre company Zoo Co Creative Ltd.
They’ll be creating development opportunities for 14–18-year-olds, deaf and disabled children and neurodiverse young adults.
Like other organisations we’re funding in the area, they’ll be hosting activity as part of Croydon’s tenure as London Borough of Culture.
We’re also investing in Lewisham’s IRIE! dance theatre, which teaches young people African and Caribbean dance and drumming.
In tough times, this investment is so important.
Involvement with the arts is crucial to supporting the imagination, skills development, and self-expression of young people – fuelling the success of our creative industries and resulting in the next generation of South London talent.
Tonya Nelson
Area Director, London, Arts Council England
Image credit – World Heart Beat Music Academy musicians recording and producing as part of their live streamed concert programme. Credit Phil Conrad.