Take A Part (TAP), a Plymouth-based socially engaged art organisation, is running a two-year Ocean Creative Cultures Programme to empower local communities in ocean activism. Working with local residents, artists, environmental organisations and civic partners, TAP is developing a ‘Plymouth Model’ of ocean climate justice work using an arts-based, community-led engagement appraoch. The Foundation is supporting this work with a £100,000 grant over two years. 

Despite Plymouth’s status as Britain’s Ocean City, with the National Marine Aquarium and the UK’s first National Marine Park, 17% of Plymouth children have never been to the sea due to socio-economic barriers. TAP is based in East End, one of Plymouth’s most deprived areas, and its project collaborates with local communities, Plymouth City Council and the University of Plymouth to create accessible, participatory models for ocean climate action. 

The Ocean Creative Cultures Programme will work closely with acclaimed environmental artist Owen Griffiths and local artists to co-create initiatives with the community aimed at fostering deeper connections with the local environment. Using the Plymouth Sound National Marine Park as a base for engagement, the project will support residents to become active ‘marine citizens’ – advocates who understand and care for their local environment. By addressing inequalities in access to local blue and green spaces, the programme also seeks to enhance community well-being and environmental stewardship.

IMAGE: https://www.a-n.co.uk/resource/assembly-2019-owen-griffiths-artist-based-in-swansea/

In its first year, the Ocean Creative Cultures Programme is developing a programme of activities and artists commissions that are shaped by community priorities. The project will also produce a series of practical, creative and strategic toolkits for socially engaged arts practitioners in other coastal communities wanting to adapt TAP’s approach. Year two will focus on local activism and international partnerships, equipping participants with the tools to champion ocean literacy and access. 

This initiative demonstrates the role of community-led creativity in tackling climate change. The Foundation’s support reflects our commitment to arts-based climate approaches that serve underserved groups. By making complex environmental challenges relevant and tangible to affected communities, TAP encourage engagement and local climate action.