What is HAPPEN?
HAPPEN was set up in 2005 by Arts Council England, in partnership with the five local authorities in Bedfordshire, to develop the market for artists working in other sectors. Initially a three-year programme, it has been extended for a further year until March 2009, in order to see through a number of projects.
Over the last two and a half years, HAPPEN has set up and delivered a number of projects exploring the use of the arts in delivering social and economic objectives. These range from engaging young people in Luton in tackling social issues, through enhancing green infrastructure, to supporting the revitalisation of Bedford town centre. It has also supported the career development of many of the countyís leading professional artists.
HAPPEN is hosted by BRCC, the leading charity working with communities across Bedfordshire and Luton.
Click here to visit their website.
Nanotechnology
Thanks to a grant of over £25,000 from the Wellcome Trust, Julie Freeman is resident artist within the Nanotechnology Centre at Cranfield University. Learn more about forthcoming public talks. more...
Houghton Hall Park
Read more about how David Appleyard became involved with this project more...
Work Space Work
Martin Figura's exhibition completed its regional tour with a final showing at the Woodside Estate in Dunstable. more...
Arts in Green Spaces
Our green spaces, whether urban parks or the countryside, are vital to our quality of life and sense of place. Artists are increasingly contributing to the distinctiveness of green spaces, and this has emerged as an important strand of HAPPENís work. Examples include:
Click here to read about HAPPENís Public Art Strategy for the Greensand Ridge Walk.
Click here to read about how Sheffield-based artist David Appleyard worked with the local community and developed a major public realm enhancement for Houghton Hall Park, in South Bedfordshire.
Click here to read about how Potton-based artist Paul Pibworth installed his new sculpture Spread Your Wings in the Henry Smiths playing field, Bedfordshire.
Click here to view Susannah Oliverís labyrinth for Priory Country Park in Bedford.
