Our Freedom: Then and Now is a new, UK-wide arts and creative programme, driven by local communities, that will produce 60 original works exploring what ‘Our Freedom’ means to people today – marking the 80th anniversary of VE/VJ Day.
Led by Future Arts Centres, the initiative brings together 60 arts centres and libraries, partnering with commissioned artists and local residents to create powerful cultural events, exhibitions, and performances that resonate both locally and nationally.
Rural Arts have been working closely with military families, bringing together up to 20 participants of different generations for a series of craftivism workshops. Through hands-on creative sessions, led by our commissioned artist Adrian Riley, participants have been exploring their personal and collective interpretations of freedom, drawing inspiration from the themes within Simon Armitage’s poem, Freedom Road.
Their stories and experiences will shape a short film, captured by our commissioned filmmaker Nathan Towers, which will premiere in Catterick before touring to rural venues across North Yorkshire as part of our ON Tour programme, delivered in partnership with the National Rural Touring Initiative.
We’re thrilled to be involved in this meaningful journey and look forward to sharing our progress with you along the way!
Check out below the details for our fantastic event at Bramble Woods.
Our Freedom: Then & Now
As dusk settles over Bramble Woods, the space will come alive with music, light, and shared experiences. The evening will feature performances by the Service Children’s Choir , creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that encourages connection and conversation.
Lanterns and fire pits – crafted in a community workshop – will gently illuminate the woods, inviting visitors to explore, listen, and take part in the evening’s unfolding moments.
The programme also includes:
Guided tours and talks by artist Adrian Riley, offering insights into the newly co-created artwork and its themes.
A film screening and talk with filmmaker Nathan Tower, premiering his new work created for the project.
A range of food stalls, workshops, and street performers, offering something for all ages and interests throughout the day and into the evening.
Join us in Bramble Woods for a unique celebration of creativity, community, and the power of shared experience.
Bramble Woods, Catterick Garrison
The programme is delivered in partnership with Libraries Connected and Open Eye Gallery, supported using public funding by UK Government through Arts Council England.
