Join Junction Arts in Bolsover and Chesterfield

At Junction Arts, we have the unique privilege of working with two vibrant hubs: Bolsover and Chesterfield. Each town brings its own rich history and spirit, making our collaborative efforts truly special.

Bolsover: A Resilient Community with Creative Roots

Bolsover, a proud former mining town, has faced its share of challenges but is now on an upward trajectory. The resilience and creativity of its people shine brightly, particularly during the annual Bolsover Lantern Parade, now in its 32nd year. This spectacular event showcases community-made lanterns, embodying the town's inventive spirit.

Bolsover's heritage runs deeper than coal; it boasts a long tradition of craftsmanship, from the iconic “Bolsover Buckle” to its once-thriving hosiery industry. Creativity is woven into the fabric of this community, creating an environment that is open, curious, and eager to explore new ventures.

Chesterfield: A Hub of Innovation and Craftsmanship

Chesterfield, with its vibrant market town atmosphere, is steeped in a rich history of making and innovation. The town is known for its celebrated pottery heritage and pioneering companies like Robinson & Son, who revolutionised packaging with tubular cardboard used for Smarties. This spirit of imagination thrives today, driving Chesterfield's creative sector and its proactive involvement in the Derbyshire Makes programme.

Our office in Chesterfield allows Junction Arts to collaborate closely with a diverse range of talented local artists, from printmakers, portrait artists, dramatists, and illustrators. Their passion and skill reflects the energy of a burgeoning creative community that continues to inspire and grow.

The Essence of Derbyshire Makes

Derbyshire Makes represents a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the county’s rich heritage of making. It’s not just about the well-known skills; it’s also about uncovering the hidden craftsmanship that often goes unnoticed. What excites us most is the chance to highlight this unseen creativity, from Bolsover’s historic buckle-making to Chesterfield’s revival of lacemaking.

Reflecting on Year One

In our first year, we had the opportunity to showcase the making skills of both hubs through exhibitions, live demonstrations, and hands-on activities. The public could witness makers at work and engage in the process themselves. Highlights included Bolsover’s Teenage Market and the heritage crafts featured at the Derbyshire Creative Heritage Conference in Chesterfield, which inspired many attendees.

Looking Forward

As we plan for year two, we are excited to shape the upcoming festival programme in collaboration with the public and the creative community. A particular highlight will be the focus on Chesterfield’s creative sector and the launch of the Great Chesterfield Make Off.

The Power of Community Through Making

Creating opportunities for participation in the arts and crafts is incredibly important to us. With nearly 50 years of experience working with communities, we have built strong relationships with local groups, partners, and skilled artists. This understanding enables us to create events and projects that inspire change and foster stronger, more connected communities.

Our festivals and workshops offer people the chance to be creative, learn new skills, and connect with others. Witnessing the impact of bringing people together through making is a privilege, creating shared experiences that enrich our community.

A Legacy of Pride and Inspiration

As we look to the future, we hope our programme will be remembered as a celebration of local skills and talents. We aim to instil a sense of pride in our towns and the wider county, inspiring a new generation of creators and artists. We envision our programme as a springboard for exploration, creativity, and thriving community spirit.

At Junction Arts, we are committed to nurturing the creative energy that exists in Bolsover and Chesterfield, ensuring that the legacy of making continues to flourish in Derbyshire. Join us in celebrating this vibrant journey!