Artists and illustrators, whether amateur or professional, are being sought for a new collaborative project to celebrate Bedford High Street.
The aim is to bring together experienced and aspiring artists, illustrators and designers to create a short printed book of original artwork inspired by the High Street.
Anyone over the age of 17 can apply to take part, you’ll be paid for your work and the deadline for submission is 22 May 2023.
Commissioned by the artists’ collective, the Circus of Illustration, the series of illustrations will be published in a zine* and the launch will be celebrated by a fun-filled town centre drawing event for families on Saturday 19 August.
The Circus of Illustration was formed in 2011 and is an informal collective of Bedfordshire-based artists that volunteer their time and efforts to promote illustration locally.
They run monthly Drink and Draw events at The Park pub and regularly run children’s workshops and professional development programmes for artists.
Marisa Straccia, the original designer of the Bedford Clanger and one of the founder members of the Circus of Illustration said: “We especially want to hear from you if you feel you don’t fit in with the art world. We aren’t looking for qualifications or buzzwords, just some potential.
“Exchanging ideas with other creatives on collaborative projects like this is inspiring, you are introduced to new perspectives, techniques and stories, whilst fostering new friendships.”
For the project, The Circus of Illustration is looking for submissions from:
- Students over 17
- People with an artistic side hustle
- Those changing to a career in art
- Experienced artists and illustrators wanting to be part of an artistic legacy in Bedford whilst willing
to support a less experienced artist.
Anyone interested is asked to apply by 22 May 2023 by visiting the Circus of Illustration website here.
For further information, email circusofillustration@gmail.com.
*a ‘zine’ is a non-commercial publication that is produced in small batches and generally has a specific theme.
