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.
Over the last three 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 countys leading professional artists.
HAPPEN is hosted by BRCC, the leading charity working with communities across Bedfordshire and Luton.
Click here to visit their website.
Nano Novels
Art and Science from the Tiniverse more...
Nanotechnology
With support from the Wellcome Trust, Julie Freeman has been resident artist within the Nanotechnology Centre at Cranfield University. Learn more about this project. more...
Bedford Square
Happen is delighted to be working with Andy Hazell, our lead artist on this commission, and subject to final planning approval being granted, we expect the artwork to be installed later this year. 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 HAPPENs work. Examples include:
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 Olivers labyrinth for Priory Country Park in Bedford.
