Hidden Depths, is a photography project that captures portraits and stories of older people across the UK. The work highlights the rich and varied lives of older adults and seeks to challenge ageist stereotypes, which Laura Page identifies as reflecting systemic and casual prejudice and problematic age segregation. For this micro-commission we'd like artists to spend 3-4 days responding through their own creative practice based on the stimuli provided; what form the output takes is up to you, we simply want you to respond to the conversations and workshop outputs in your own way. Outputs will be shared as part of the Hidden Depths community exhibition in 2027.

What we're looking for

We are inviting proposals from artists to develop a creative response to the exhibition and the output of the associated community engagement program. We are open to all art forms, which may include music, writing, visual art, performances, craft or textile pieces, etc.

We are interested in creative responses that:

Encourage intergenerational dialogue and connection.
Challenge age-related stereotypes.

What we offer

Selected artists will have access to outputs from the community engagement program to date, which will include:

Portrait photography workshops exploring age, how we view ourselves vs how others see us, intergenerational connections. (examples below)
Street-based "benchside stories" capturing informal conversations and 'what's beneath the surface' with local residents.
Craft activities at local Memory Caf 's based on memory, aging, and perceptions of self.
Production of a short film documenting the engagement process.

Open to creatives from Lichfield and the surrounding areas.

4 commissions to the value of £1000 each. The commission fee will cover artist time (3-4 days), materials, fabrication, and travel.