CREATIVE city residents are being sought to celebrate the landmark 400th anniversary of Worcester City Charter.
On October 2, 1621, James I put his seal to the Charter which granted Worcester the rights and constitution which still form the basis for modern governance of the city today.
A Charter Festival is planned during 2021 and commissions are being offered for artworks inspired by significant aspects of Worcester’s history over the last 400 years.
The artworks, which are being commissioned by Worcester City Council, could take any form – as a painting, sculpture, performance, piece of writing or a digital creation. They will go on display in Worcester on October 2 – the date of the 400th anniversary.
The City Council has a total budget of £5,000 to pay for the artwork. Between one and four artists will be commissioned.
“The arts have helped to sustain many of us throughout this last year and they have a crucial role to play in encouraging people to return to the city centre as Worcester recovers from Covid-19,” said Coun Jo Hodges, Mayor of Worcester.
“The artworks we’re commissioning will help to draw attention to the significance of Worcester’s City Charter, which forms the bedrock of local governance and underpins many of the freedoms we enjoy today.”
The artworks will form part of a Charter Festival, helping to revitalise Worcester’s economy and communities after a year defined by the pandemic. Through a celebration of the city’s heritage, culture and 400 years of endeavour, festival organisers want to bring local people and visitors back to the city to enjoy its attractions, hotels, bars and restaurants.
Local heritage and cultural venues have already committed their support to the 2021 Charter Festival.
Artists are asked to submit an expression of interest and short proposal by 9am on April 19.
Visit www.visitworcester.co.uk/charter-400 or call Michelle Newell on 07917 623481 for more.
