Creative Island Ident (Teal)
The Cultural Development Agency for the Isle of Wight

Unpacking Department: Exciting new heritage project now underway

Elizabeth Packs Keys

In another example of how funding bodies are more than willing to invest and support cultural heritage on the Isle of Wight, National Lottery Heritage Fund have awarded a substantial grant to Department Ryde for a year-long project led by Shademakers UK. Tracy Mikich and Teresa Grimaldi, curators for ‘Unpacking Department’, have been busily sifting […]

The People’s Palace of Possibilities: Utopian scheming and rageful dreaming

People's Palace of Possibilities event - people in the dome as part of the street party

A unique interactive installation, The People’s Palace of Possibility, is set to engage Islanders for three weeks starting from Friday, 3rd May. The event seeks to explore how we can harness energy and hope for the future amid prevalent feelings of fear and anger. Engaging Experiences in a Multi-Coloured DomeHosted at Ingram’s Yard in Ventnor, […]

Free networking event for visual artists at historic Dimbola Museum

The outside of dimbola lodge

Step into the creative heart of the Isle of Wight at IW Creative Network‘s inaugural networking event for photographers (visual artists and videographers also very much welcome). This special gathering is scheduled for Thursday, 25th April 2024, from 5pm to 7pm, at the iconic Dimbola Museum and Galleries in Freshwater. Admission is free. Steeped in […]

Grassroots music boost: Learn how to tap into music funds from Arts Council England

Close up of guitar player from Platform One (1)

In an exciting development for the Isle of Wight’s music scene, Arts Council England’s Relationship Manager for Grassroots Music, Rosey Brown, announces a pivotal talk for musicians, venues, producers, and promoters. This essential gathering is scheduled for Wednesday 8th May 2024, at Building 41 in Northwood, where Rosey will share all you need to know […]

A celebration of Island Culture: Arts, Museums and Heritage showcase

Volunteers planting on living wall

The Isle of Wight Volunteer Centre, in collaboration with the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, and supported by Creative Island, is organising a very special event, taking place on Sunday 14th April. The Arts and Heritage Volunteer Fair aims to shine a light on the extraordinary contributions of the Island’s arts, museums, and heritage organisations, […]

Interactive Arts Trail debuts in Ryde, featuring nine unique murals

Artists added mural at Waterisde Pool

The Ryde Arts Trail, a collaborative effort between Ryde Town Council and Community Murals, is set to launch Easter Weekend – Saturday 30th March, promising an immersive and inspiring experience for all. On the launch day, artists will be present throughout the town, offering maps and insights into their creations. Nine captivating artworksThe Arts Trail […]

Future Works: The new initiative fuelling youth creativity on the Isle of Wight

Adrienne Wroath working on a ring

Ever dreamt of starting a band, but couldn’t find a drummer? Or perhaps you’re itching to write a play, but lack a cast? Maybe you’re eager to film a showreel, but don’t know a filmmaker? Future Works is here to bridge those gaps and ignite collaborations. Future Works, a dynamic initiative brought to you by […]

Creative West: Book now for first meeting

Freshwater Bay on the Isle of Wight, seascape, sunset and landscape

When: Monday 15th April 7pm-8.30pmWhere: West Wight Sports & Community Centre A networking and listening event to celebrate and support the cultural and creative sectors in the West Wight. Creative Island is developing a series of creative hubs across the Island with the ambition of encouraging collaboration, sharing resources and information and identifying common ambitions […]

Artists unite to revive Isle of Wight Open Studios: New dates announced

Tops of paint cans

The Isle of Wight’s artistic tapestry is set to be showcased once more, as the IW Open Studios makes a triumphant return in 2024. This event, steeped in a rich history of fostering community and creativity, opens doors — quite literally — to the vibrant studios of local artists, inviting both residents and visitors to […]

Embrace the creative spark: Isle of Wight’s very first Biosphere Festival

Mother and child walking in the woods at Hullabaloo lite - Julian Winslow

Every artist, creator and supporter of cultural vibrancy on the Isle of Wight will be thrilled to hear that the to Island is set to illuminate like never before with this groundbreaking celebration. The 29th and 30th June 2024 marks the debut of the Isle of Wight Biosphere Festival, a testament to the shared commitment […]