We work closely with our libraries to support the development of emerging local talent and cultivate the space and resources for them to explore their practice.
The ‘In Residence’ project is part of Suffolk Libraries established Arts Programme which is funded by Arts Council England. Nurturing existing and emerging artistic talent is at the heart of Suffolk Libraries creative offer and the ‘In Residence’ programme is an opportunity for artists to explore and create in collaboration with libraries over an intensive period.
Martin Scaiff was Suffolk Libraries' second Environmentalist in Residence. His research-informed project invited everyone, particularly young people, to become active environmental listeners for the benefit of their creativity, education, health, and wellbeing.
Clare Sams joined Suffolk Libraries in November 2023 as our first ever Environmentalist in Residence, taking part in a six-month residency with the purpose of using creativity as an instrument to provide education and increase public awareness around environmental issues.
Kirsty Tallent became our first Storyteller in Residence in May 2023. She is a multi-sensory theatre maker and facilitator specialising in creating immersive work which is accessible for young people with disabilities and additional needs.
Our Artist LABs invite a handful of mixed-media artists to explore, share and collaborate with one another across one week in one of our library venues. Previous Artist LABs have taken place at Ipswich County Library, Hadleigh Library and Lowestoft Library.
Find out more about our Artist LABs in our YouTube video.
Libraries in a Year invited artist Sandy Horsley to observe libraries one day a month over a year. During her residency Sandy produce a piece of artwork capturing each library inspired by her time spent in our spaces.
Listen to Sandy speak about her residency.
In 2021, Suffolk Libraries partnered with BBC Radio Suffolk to launch a new ‘human library’ of 40 personal stories from across the County. In collaboration with award-winning storyteller Glenys Newton, Around Suffolk in 40 Stories aimed to promote intercultural understanding, empathy, listening and relatability, welcoming difference and encouraging dialogue between people from all walks of life in Suffolk.
Watch our YouTube video introducing the audio project.
