Artist-Maker Call Out for Dare to Dream

Derbyshire Makes and Local Creative Project Ltd are inviting proposals from a textile artist, public artist or collective to lead a major participatory installation as the finale of its Dare to Dream programme, to be presented at Masson Mills within the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.

Rooted in Derbyshire’s rich industrial and making heritage, the commission will bring together hundreds of banners and flags created by communities across the programme, transforming them into a bold, interactive installation that reflects themes of making, sustainability and place. The final work will form a landmark moment for Dare to Dream, celebrating collective creativity and the legacy of making across the county.

The project will be delivered between Spring 2026 and Summer 2027, with the appointed artist or collective working closely with communities, programme partners and the Derbyshire Makes and Local team to shape the final installation.

This opportunity is well suited to practitioners with experience in large-scale textile or banner-based work, community-led and place-based practice, and working within heritage or public settings.

Fee: £10,000 (materials budget provided separately)
Location: Masson Mills, Derbyshire

Application process
Applicants are invited to submit:
• A 500-word statement outlining their approach
• 3–5 relevant examples of work
• A CV (maximum two pages)

Deadline: 5pm Friday 20th February 2026

Commission start: March/April 2026

Applications should be sent to: makes@derbyshiremakes.co.uk

Dare to Dream is part of the wider work of Derbyshire Makes, supporting communities across Derbyshire to explore creativity, skills and making through ambitious, collaborative projects.