In response to the pandemic, we launched an open call to commission three recent graduates of any Lancashire based university creative degree programmes. Graduates were invited to produce new artistic work responding to the festival themes and receive mentoring from industry professionals.

The aim of this commissioning programme was to ensure that those graduating during the pandemic had the opportunity to be funded and make new work during a period of significant global change.

From April to July 2021, the work of Daniel Nelson of UCLan (BA Illustration), Ellie Barrett of Lancaster University (PhD Contemporary Sculpture), and Christian Bell of Blackburn College (BA Fine Art) is exhibited in Blackburn town centre through both physical and digital outputs.

You can read about the outcomes of each graduate’s project below.