The Art of Making
Creative Lancashire has released a specially-commissioned film about a series of astonishing collaborations, bringing together creativity and manufacturing in Pennine Lancashire.
Directed and produced by Andy Walmsley at Preston-based Wash Design, it follows nine artists collaborating with local manufacturers on Art of Manufacturing – the headline project of The National Festival of Making.
Co-commissioned by Super Slow Way, the project paired often hidden industries with exceptional artists over six months to create works exhibited earlier this year in some of Blackburn town centre’s most historic and contemporary venues.
The film shows the artists planning and preparing, through to the showcasing of their work during the festival, with footage of the artists in factories and workshops, culminating in the work being presented in venues ranging from empty shops, town squares and Blackburn Cathedral.
Ed Matthew-Gentle, senior project officer from Creative Lancashire, who commissioned the film, said: “The results of the residencies by these artists and makers highlighted our proud local manufacturing heritage and its key relationship with creativity and innovation today.
“This exciting project attracted national media coverage and illuminated Lancashire’s industrial prowess and heritage.
“The innovative approaches explored through arts and crafts are translated into new applications of materials and techniques in manufacturing, engineering, science and other industries.
“This was a clear celebration of the present, a connection to our past and an inspiration to our future makers.
“Blackburn has twice the national average of people employed in manufacturing, as well as a community of talented and creative makers, which made this a perfect choice of location to explore the both our strength in manufacturing, combined with high-quality creativity.”
The film can be viewed online at: https://vimeo.com/226883745
Creative Lancashire is a service provided by Lancashire County Council through its economic development company – Lancashire County Developments Ltd (LCDL). They support creative and digital businesses and work with all sectors to realise creative potential.
Find out more at www.creativelancashire.org. Follow them on twitter @CreativeLancs