B-side

B-side: Uncovering the Hidden Gems of Coastal Towns

B-side is an artist-led arts organization based in Dorset, UK. The company works with and commissions artists to create new site-responsive work that reveals the marginal, often forgotten, and less commercial aspects of our coastal towns and communities.

The company's mission is to uncover the hidden gems of coastal towns by showcasing their unique cultural heritage through art. B-side believes that art has the power to transform communities by bringing people together and creating a sense of place.

B-side was founded in 2007 by a group of artists who were passionate about exploring the cultural heritage of coastal towns. Since then, the company has grown into a leading arts organization that has commissioned over 100 artists to create site-specific work across Dorset.

One of B-side's most significant achievements is its biennial festival, which takes place every two years in Weymouth and Portland. The festival brings together local residents, visitors, and artists from around the world to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of these coastal towns.

The festival features a diverse range of art forms, including performance art, sound installations, film screenings, exhibitions, workshops, talks and walks. Each piece is created specifically for its location on or near Weymouth Bay or Portland Harbour.

B-side's commitment to working with local communities is evident in its community engagement program. The program provides opportunities for local residents to get involved in creating artwork alongside professional artists. This approach ensures that each project reflects the unique character and identity of each community it serves.

In addition to its community engagement program and biennial festival events; B-Side also offers year-round support for emerging artists through residencies programs such as 'Artists on Location' which provides studio space for up-and-coming creatives looking for inspiration from their surroundings while developing their practice further within an artistic community setting.

B-Side also runs regular workshops aimed at developing skills in areas such as sound recording, film-making, and performance art. These workshops are open to anyone interested in exploring their creativity and learning new skills.

B-side's work has been recognized nationally and internationally for its innovative approach to site-specific art. The company has received numerous awards, including the prestigious Paul Hamlyn Foundation Award for Artists in 2014.

In conclusion, B-side is an artist-led arts organization that is committed to uncovering the hidden gems of coastal towns through site-specific art. The company's biennial festival events bring together local residents, visitors, and artists from around the world to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of these coastal towns. B-Side also offers year-round support for emerging artists through residencies programs such as 'Artists on Location' which provides studio space for up-and-coming creatives looking for inspiration from their surroundings while developing their practice further within an artistic community setting. With its commitment to working with local communities and promoting cultural heritage through art; B-Side is a leading example of how art can transform communities by bringing people together and creating a sense of place.