UNBOUND - dynamic artists for public places

We’re delighted to share a summary evaluation report of UNBOUND, an artist development we delivered in partnership with YVAN in 2024/25, commissioned by Wakefield Council, and funded by Wakefield Council, Cultural Development Fund and the West Yorkshire Combined Authority.

UNBOUND was an exciting new artist development programme which was developed to address some of the challenges and barriers that exist for artists seeking to deliver their work in public spaces. It maximised a key opportunity for creative skills development presented by Our Year – Wakefield District 2024 and public art commissioning activity that took place across the district in the same time period.

Thanks to our amazing cohort, mentors, partners, funders and speakers for all their support in making UNBOUND a success!

A cohort of 12 dynamic artists from Wakefield and the wider West Yorkshire region developed new creative skills and learning over a 6-month period, through a mix of in person and virtual workshops and networking opportunities. The programme also offered the opportunity for the cohort to receive mentorship from an experienced artist delivering a real time project in a public space.

In partnership with YVAN and Wakefield Council we are delighted to publish an insightful Summary Evaluation Report for the UNBOUND programme. This document offers an overview of the programme delivery, from design and recruitment, to budget, delivery and outcomes. With key recommendations of interest for commissioners and project managers, mentees and mentors alike.

Read the UNBOUND Summary Evaluation Report here.

Read artist spotlights to find out more about some of the UNBOUND artist cohort on the Creative Wakefield website below:

Discover the UNBOUND Quick Guide resources that were developed as part of the programme.

Programme photographs © Nicholas Singleton and Beam.