As we look back on 2024, it’s clear this year has been a remarkable chapter for Diverse Artists Network (DAN). From launching groundbreaking initiatives, to fostering collaborations and expanding our reach, we’ve seen incredible progress in our mission to champion diversity in the arts.
At the heart of this journey was DIASPORA!, an ambitious festival celebrating the rich tapestry of cultural diversity across Bristol and the South West. This milestone event set the tone for a year filled with creativity, collaboration, and community building, affirming our commitment to making the arts more inclusive and vibrant.
DIASPORA! 2024
This year, we launched DIASPORA!, a first-of-its-kind festival for Bristol and the South West, piloted over the Early May Bank Holiday. This ambitious celebration of cultural diversity brought together over 200 artists from underrepresented cultural backgrounds, showcasing talent from diasporas of Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, the Middle East, and Central and South America. With 70+ events, including music, dance, poetry, storytelling, drumming, visual arts, and more, it was a weekend of vibrant creativity for everyone.
DIASPORA! partnered with over 30 venues and organisations, such as Arnolfini, Bristol Old Vic, and The Mount Without, creating an unforgettable experience. Immense gratitude to West of England Mayoral Combined Authority, Arts Council England, Quartet Community Foundation, and Bristol City Centre BID for their crucial support.
New Beginnings at Arnolfini
In August, we moved to Arnolfini’s Creators Residence on the first floor, joining Curiosity UnLtd and LET’S MAKE ART. This vibrant space is the perfect hub for collaboration and innovation, and we’re excited for the opportunities it will foster in 2025.
Celebrating Dance and Theatre
March saw us host All Things Dance at the stunning Mount Without in collaboration with Movema Dance. Performances from RISE Youth Dance, Kerry Sudbury/Oka Anumpuli, Medea Mahdavi, Latin Gems, Fusion Belly Dance, South West Dance Theatre, and more created a rich tapestry of styles and stories. Sudanese cuisine by Eman added a delicious touch, while insightful discussions were led by facilitators Pei Yee Tong and Kamini Mehta, along with speakers like Helen Wilson, Kit Hall, Deborah Baddoo, and Rowan Fae.
In April, All Things Theatre at Bristol Old Vic was another sold-out success. In collaboration with KIOTA Bristol, we hosted discussions featuring luminaries such as Nancy Medina, Nir Paldi, Kate Yedigaroff, Alix Harris, Corinne Walker, and more. The evening celebrated Bristol’s thriving theatre scene and its diversity, complemented by delicious food from Eman.
Visual Arts and Insight Sessions
In November, Imagining All Things Visual convened at Arnolfini to explore ways to amplify underrepresented artists’ voices in Bristol’s visual arts scene. Meanwhile, we hosted free Insight Sessions, that shared knowledge on increasing your online presence, exploring funding opportunities, and how to get more bookings for festivals. In January, we have our final session where we’ll be Evaluating Projects with Dr Roz Stewart-Hall.
Collaborations and Festivals
- At WOMAD Festival in July, in partnership with Bristol Refugee Festival, we shared the festival experience with refugees, asylum seekers, and diverse artists.
- At the Shambala Festival, we had our best year yet by continuing to strengthen our role in artistic development and programming.
- September’s World in Bristol Festival at Bristol Museum featured Japanese folk songs, Tibetan and Colombian dance, Native American storytelling, and Kora music by a Senegalese griot, skillfully hosted by Rob Mitchell.
Chew Valley Retreat
In October, we ventured to EcoWild in Chew Valley for a day of storytelling, connection, and organic cooking. Despite morning rain, it was a heartwarming day spent nurturing artistic bonds and exploring our connections to nature.
High Street Project in St. Paul’s
Under the Bristol City Council High Streets Initiative, we’ll deliver a dynamic program for Ashley and Grosvenor Roads. From workshops to a celebratory event titled Let’s Cheer for Our Community, this initiative has brought residents together while supporting local businesses and showcasing cultural richness.
New Partnerships and Recognition
Becoming an Associate Company at Bristol Old Vic has opened doors for collaborations with diverse theatre-makers. Additionally, we’re proud to be working with The Jam Jar, St Paul’s Carnival, and other iconic institutions on exciting new projects.
Development and Recruitment
Over the summer we wished our farewells to Fleur Williams who dedicated over four years of her time and valuable contributions to Diverse Artists Network as our Fundraiser. Her professionalism, ambition, and resilience set a lasting foundation for our organisation’s growth and success.
We also couldn’t thank Yoma Smith enough for her invaluable guidance and input to help us significantly grow as a Community Interest Company (CIC). Our Development Day, facilitated by Sandra Meadows, helped us refine our vision for the future, including launching a membership scheme and expanding into agency services.
Finally, we’re thrilled to announce we are recruiting a Company Manager and new Board Members to continue driving our mission forward.
Looking Ahead
With DIASPORA! set to return in 2026, new partnerships blooming, and our community growing, 2025 promises to be another incredible year for Diverse Artists Network. Thank you to everyone who has joined us on this journey—artists, venues, funders, and audiences alike. Together, we’re making the arts more inclusive and vibrant for all!
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