Work created by dozens of young Derby artists took centre stage in an innovative exhibition that went live outside the city’s cathedral in the summer, involving nearly three hundred young people from the city of Derby who created murals, videos, and audio installations. These works addressed issues of exclusion and drew on the influence of contemporary issues such as the Black Lives Matter movement, mental health, education reform, employment opportunities, bullying, barriers to opportunity, and LGBTQ+ rights.
The Derby Voice installation was developed by Designing Dialogue Community Interest Company (S.H.E.D), the first spin-out company from the University of Derby’s School of Arts. It was part of the University’s nationally acclaimed S.H.E.D (Social Higher Education Depot) initiative, and the public had the chance to see and hear the work for themselves at Derby Cathedral from 16–19 July.
Working with local organisations, the S.H.E.D team, along with staff and students from the University’s Interior Design programme, designed the installation space for Derby Voice, just as they played a part in developing the S.H.E.D. This was a flat-pack shed that could be easily transported and constructed as a venue for various uses, such as creative workshops and public consultations.
In addition to the support of the University, the event was made possible through collaboration with a range of civic and arts organisations in the city and beyond, including Derby Cathedral, Derby County Community Trust, Derby City Council, Baby People, ArtCoreUK, Derby Theatre, Quad, Arts Council England, Amplify U, MPrezEnterprise, VoiceMag, National Citizens Society Government Youth Project, and Co-Creators Change Midlands Network.
Even before the event, the difference it made to these young people’s lives was evident. Equipment was purchased that helped them develop their careers as freelance artists, and for others, the transformation in their sense of self-esteem was the most important impact of their involvement.
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