Latest News | 13 July 2021
New exhibition aims to make young voices heard
Work created by dozens of young Derby artists will take centre stage in an innovative exhibition set to go live outside Derby Cathedral.
Involving nearly 300 young people from the city, who are creating murals, videos and audio installations, the event, called The Derby Voice, will address issues of exclusion and draw on the influence of contemporary issues such as the Black Lives Matter movement, mental health, education reform, employment opportunities, bullying, barriers to opportunities and LGBTQ+ rights.
The installation has been developed by Designing Dialogue Community Interest Company, the first spin-out company from the University of Derby’s School of Arts.
It is part of the university’s nationally-acclaimed S.H.E.D (Social Higher Education Depot) initiative, and the public will get a chance to see and hear the work for themselves at Derby Cathedral from Friday, 16 July to Monday, 19 July.
In addition to the support of the university, the event has been made possible through collaboration with a range civic and arts organisations in the city and beyond, including Derby Cathedral, Derby County Community Trust, Derby City Council, Derby Theatre, Artcore and QUAD.
Dr Rhiannon Jones, artistic researcher at the university and chief and creative director of S.H.E.D, said: “We are so thrilled to be able to stage this fascinating and thought-provoking event for the city.
“The objective of Derby Voice is to provide a platform to those young people in our city, to showcase their artistic talent and for their views on the issues that matter to them to be heard loud and clear.”
The Very Revd Dr Peter Robinson, Dean of Derby, said: “Derby Cathedral is delighted to host S.H.E.D. and support the project.
“It’s so important that the voices of young people are heard and that they have a safe space to express their concerns, perceptions and dreams. We hope everyone finds some sanctuary in the Cathedral.”
Jo Wilkinson, schools development manager for Derby County Community Trust, said: “We are thrilled to be working in partnership on this exciting project.
“It’s a fantastic platform for young people in our city to ensure their voices are heard.”
For more information about the event visit the Derby Voice website.
