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Artists and performers sought for festival return

Clare LissamanWest Midlands
Graham Stubbs/Asylum Artist Quarter CIC A man and woman are dancing with their arms in the air, while a man looks like he is recording the peformance on a phone which is on a stand. Behind them is a large sculptured figure, which is lit up, and a street light decoration which is also lit up. The performance is in the street in the evening and there are people watching and some shops in the background. Graham Stubbs/Asylum Artist Quarter CIC
Performers, artists, community groups and schools can all be involved in Illuminate Fringe Arts

Storytellers, musicians and artists are among creatives being sought for the return of a festival.

Fringe Arts Wolverhampton organisers said it would be "bigger, bolder and more ambitious", with events at a range of venues and the return of a popular light trail and lantern parade.

Project manager Hannah Taylor-Salter said the November event would "celebrate Wolverhampton" and followed the success of last year's pilot where attendees said they enjoyed seeing the city's "hidden talent".

"It gives artists a chance to showcase their work locally and meet lots of other artists," she added.

More than 2,000 people attended last year's events, including hundreds who visited exhibition venues such as St Peter's Collegiate Church and the Grand Palace.

The two heritage buildings have again been chosen to host artwork, alongside the Mander Centre Community Hub and other venues.

Asylum Artist Quarter CIC A man standing on a rainy street holding at art work. He is wearing a puffer jacket and a cap. In front of him are drawings on easels. The backs of people walking by can be seen as well as what looks like a Christmas tree which has not yet been decorated. Asylum Artist Quarter CIC
Organisers said visitors told them they enjoyed seeing many pieces of art by Wolverhampton artists in the city centre last year

Taylor-Salter, an artist who has worked in the city for 11 years, is director of Asylum Artist Quarter, which is organising the fringe festival with Gatis Community Space.

It will run from 27 to 29 November, and is funded by Arts Council England and Enjoy Wolverhampton BID.

"Wolverhampton is perfect for fringe arts because everywhere is walkable," Taylor-Salter added.

She said feedback included comments from visitors who enjoyed the opportunity to see "amazing local talent and be proud".

In response to feedback, this year an inclusive access fund has been set up to help artists who may need support with costs such as printing, framing and transport.

Graham Stubbs/Asylum Artist Quarter CIC A building lit up with colourful lights and art work. Graham Stubbs/Asylum Artist Quarter CIC
A light show was part of last year's fringe arts event

Organisers said they were seeking work on a wide range of themes such as climate change, sustainability, restoration and "stories that reconnect us with nature".

They are also looking for existing artwork to be exhibited.

They added: "Whether you're part of a knitting circle, climate action group, cycling collective, rave community, mascot team or cultural organisation, we'd love to hear from you."

Prospective performers, producers and paraders should apply by 21 August.

Graham Stubbs/Asylum Artist Quarter CIC A man playing a guitar in front of a microphone. He has long hair, a beard and is wearing a white shirt and waistcoat. In front of him is a book which says 'Silly Love Songs' on it. Graham Stubbs/Asylum Artist Quarter CIC
The fringe arts event will again take place at a range of venues in the city

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