Bristol's creative communities

As a proud, born and bred Bristolian I am always raving about how great the city I grew up and live in really is.  Bristol is home to stunning architecture, a thriving music scene and a throng of local artists.  It really is one big Creative Community.  Bristol brought to you Ardman Animations, Banksy and even Drum and Bass music.  With so many creative and free-thinking individuals it is no surprise that many independent creative communities have sprung up here.  In this blog I have chosen just a small handful of Bristol’s Creative Communities to focus on in order to showcase just a small selection of Bristol innovation.  

Jamaica Street Artists
In existence for over 20 years Jamica Street Artisits is an artist led studios housed in a historic carridgeworks.  The collections are diverse and attract hundreds of visitors.  Graduate and professionals work together and exhibit regularly across the UK.  I recommend the Adrian Sykes exhibition which is only on until 5th October and showcases beautiful paintings created in Bern.  

North Bristol Artists
A group of 100+ artists who from time-to-time get together to showcase their work across North Bristol in pop up galleries of mostly their own homes! A great social event as well as a fantastic opportunity to witness a range of enthralling local artwork.  From jewellers, to painters, to sculptures, the volume and quality of work is more than impressive.  The next event takes place on the 29th and 30th of November 2014 – don’t miss out!
 
The Watershed and the Pervasive Media Studio
Currently host to the Encounters film festival the Watershed is based on the beautiful Bristol Harbourside.  The building boasts three cinemas, a conference and events space, a dynamic research space and a fantastic bar/restaurant! Academics, media experts and artists work together to deliver original abstractions and a diverse programme of films, events and festivals.  Participation is encouraged, from academic talks, competition and children’s workshops.  If you’re looking for some light-hearted fun don’t miss the Watershed’s Autumn Sci Fi Film Festival!!
 
Spike Island
A space of contemporary art and design that is host to public exhibitions, talks and activities.  These low cost studio spaces are home to over 70 artists who produce an eclectic mix of artwork. Established and emerging artists work side by side to produce an exciting and up-to-date  work.  The artists who work here claim the community atmosphere and Bristol location makes for a great  working environment - ‘working alongside other artists, means learning from and inspiring one another.'  Also check out the gallery's monthly literature events that focus on a début novelist – readers can discover new authors and the inspiration behind their writings – this month Zoe Pilger's novel Eat My Heart Out on Thursday 25th September.

Studio 31
Studio 31 is a creative office space overlooking the stunning Berkeley Square.  The 13 offices are home to jewellery makers, magazine publishers, web designers, film produces, illustrators, composers and more!  The space prides itself on its fantastic location that lends to a stimulating environment. Crack Magazine, Luke Jerram (who brought to you the park street waterslide), amongst other brilliant creative minds all reside in Studio 31.
  
The Arnolfini
The Arnolfini was established in 1961, the current building was a tea warehouse dating from the 1830s. The Grade II listed building in its fantastic Harbourside location is home to Arnolfini – a registered charity as well as a leading Bristol institution in the contemporary arts.  The Arnolfini is a centre that features experimental works in the fields of visual arts, performance dance, film and music.  It's free to visit the arnolfini galleries and they also have a lovely Cafe Bar area so no excuse not to head on down!
 
Hamilton House
Home-cooked food, live-music and a space for local artists all in one in the midst of the hustle and bustle of stokes croft!  In 2009 a community of 'Creatives' created a Bristol celebration that aimed at boosting the local community and implementing a new Social Enterprise at Hamilton House!  The independently run business project is all about cultural innovation, community enjoyment and empowerment and opportunity in the local area.  Head down to listen to some live music any night of the week!
 
The Island – Old Police Station
A multi-use arts space set with in C20th police cells.  The Island is part of the ArtSpace LifeSpace project that turns inner city derelict buildings into community businesses and successful art spaces.  Visit the Island to take part in circus training, dance classes and more!  The Island also has its very own pop-up shop that can be rented for only £130 for the week! From circus performers, to fine artists, to fashion designers this really is one bug creative community.  

The Station
A vibrant youth culture has been vital to the making of Bristol as a thriving cultural hub.  The enthusiasm and dynamism of Bristol begins with the young and the Station is a safe space where Bristol youth can learn new things like street dancing or dj-ing.  Bands and dance groups practice and perform here in the old fire station all under the facilitation of Bristol’s Creative Youth Network.

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