Reflecting on 2023: A year of adaptation at Rising Arts agency
This Is The Work Event (Collaborate Research Project) shot by Olumedia
Before we get too far into 2024 we just wanted to highlight a bunch of epic things we did last year because sometimes – even with our constant focus on reflection – we can forget to pause, take stock and celebrate how far we’ve come.
In a year where we launched a new website, concluded some pivotal research and started thinking about what a ‘Rising take on Place Shaping’ is, we wanted to share some of the team's personal highlights from the year just gone.
Rising 7th Birthday shot by Olumedia
Jess's Highlights
Team Building in Busy Moments: There were moments when the team looked at each other, wondering why we were doing so much, yet simultaneously appreciating the unique journey. Examples include impromptu dance-offs during talks in March and memorable experiences during the BE[LOVED] installation and uninstallation.
Summer Away Day: The board and team away day at Tyntesfield in August stands out. On a beautiful summer day, it felt like a true coming together of individuals who share a deep love for Rising and its mission.
Training Pilot Success: The training pilot, dubbed "Four Mondays in February," felt like the culmination of numerous ideas. Sharing it with those who know us best and launching the real training along with the website last month marked a full-circle moment.
Anticipation for the Future: With numerous seeds already planted for 2024, there's a sense of anticipation to see them bloom.
This Is The Work Event (Collaborate Research Project) shot by Olumedia
Euella's Reflections
Collaborate Research Joy: The Collaborate research has brought immense joy. From podcast recordings and labs to "This is the Work" and a budding relationship with Alix at Beyond Face, it feels like the start of something significant and validating.
Transformational Governance Stewarding Group: Working with the Transformational Governance Stewarding Group has been a massive highlight. Supporting organisations through live governance challenges and coming together in person in Manchester in October was a special experience.
Touching Moments: Hearing the Extinction Silences cohort talk about their work recently was touching and a reminder of the meaningful impact of this kind of work.
British Art Show 9 x Plymouth
Sid's Memorable Moments
Teenagers Wearing Pyjamas at the British Art Show: Watching 10 teenagers in Plymouth, who didn't know each other, organise a trip to the British Art Show together in their pyjamas, demanding comfort from arts institutions, was a heartwarming experience.
Personal Growth and Enjoyment: Being taught to weave, experiencing a tarot reading for the first time, enjoying slow luxurious breakfasts, fireside reading, and exploring rivers in Yorkshire with the radical Co-Directors have been moments of personal growth and enjoyment.
Community Connection: Reading the responses to the annual community survey and being reminded of the rich, thoughtful, powerful artists we support every day was gratifying.
Welcoming New Rising Artists: Inducting 20 new Rising artists and witnessing them seamlessly become integral parts of the Rising Community was a rewarding experience.
Utopian Dreaming Day: Hosting the community for a day of utopian dreaming, including duvet outfits, collaborative sci-fi snowscapes, and creating a 'shit solver,' was a memorable and creative endeavour.
WECA Good Employment Charter Award
Olu's Favourite Memories
Joining the Team: Joining this iconic team was easily a highlight, still on my way to a full year at Rising but I’ve definitely made some awesome memories already!
WECA Good Employment Charter: The speakers at this event were mind blowing and inspirational. If not for the fact we were deep in delivery mode I would have stayed all day everyday! Great experience and great food too.
Colston Statue Working Group: By far the most important work I had the privilege of being involved in last year. As team I feel we did some incredible work that I was so proud to be a part of.
Rising’s 7th Birthday Party: I love a good party and this was no exception! Seeing the growth of the community I’ve been a part of for the last 5 years was so stunning. Especially all the budding new creatives that have joined us recently.
Rising 7th Birthday shot by Olumedia
As we reflect on these moments, it's clear that Rising Arts Agency is not just an organisation; it's a vibrant community creating positive ripples in the world of arts and culture.
Here's to more growth, collaboration, and meaningful experiences in the coming year!
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