Lincolnshire Arts Programme Secures £1m Funding Boost

Transported, a community arts initiative in Boston, Lincolnshire, has secured a £1 million funding boost from the Arts Council. This fund is to be used for their innovative “Mind The Gap” project, aimed at addressing areas of underrepresentation in local arts and culture through the organisation of festivals and public art events. The financial provision is a fragment of the Arts Council’s Creative People and Places (CPP) Portfolio, with a £42 million fund spread across 45 programmes planned from 2026 to 2029.

Founded 12 years ago, Transported is based in the University of Lincoln’s College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities. It primarily serves Boston and South Holland, striving to enhance involvement in art experiences within these communities. A representative of the group underlined the local enthusiasm for creativity and the arts, citing the popular 1000 Faces sculpted heads and portraits endeavour.

Director Nick Jones emphasised the strides made by the programme in widening opportunities in the arts, but stressed there is still more to be accomplished. “We are striving to deliver first-rate, location-based arts experiences that genuinely connect with our communities. We are thrilled to have the support of Arts Council England in this venture,” he commented.

Boston and South Holland are the exclusive beneficiaries in Lincolnshire of the CPP initiative. This scheme aims to make the arts more accessible by positioning art experiences in public spaces such as parks, village halls, and community venues. Speaking on the subject, Liz Johnson, Midlands area director at Arts Council England, believed that Transported’s fresh approach will “enhance the region through a collaborative cultural strategy”.

This article is based on original reporting found on www.bbc.com and reworked for The Lincoln Post.