Welcome to Creative Ollerton & Edwinstowe, where history, culture, and artistic expression come together. Situated near the legendary Sherwood Forest, both Ollerton and Edwinstowe have long been celebrated for their community spirit and fascinating past. This project aims to harness their energy by connecting local artists, volunteers, and organisations to bring engaging creative opportunities to life. Both locations are filled with creative people, so we have a wealth of knowledge and talent to draw upon.
Picturesque Ollerton village is listed in the Domesday Book. More recently the town of New Ollerton, originally built as a ‘model village’ for coal miners, reflects that proud heritage and retains a strong community spirit. Community Engagement Officer Lesley Gibson is working closely with enthusiastic residents and stakeholders to make Creative Ollerton a success.
Edwinstowe, often known as Robin Hood's Village, is famed as the place where Robin Hood and Maid Marian were wed. This thriving and picturesque village, with its award-winning brass band, deep ties to its colliery past, and proximity to the iconic ‘Major Oak’ of Sherwood Forest, is equally excited about the creative projects ahead. Lesley has been warmly welcomed by the people of Edwinstowe, who are eager to get involved in the upcoming workshops, events, and exhibitions.
One of our first major projects, Spilt Milk Floor Fillers, invites everyone to share their memories of music and dance. Additionally, this autumn, an introductory floristry workshop will bloom in Edwinstowe and a collaboration is planned with Ollerton Library. Consultations are also underway for a large-scale community project, which will concentrate on celebrating the area's legendary heritage and utilising local artists.
Creative Ollerton & Creative Edwinstowe are committed to fostering connections between artists and the wider community, with a focus on encouraging participation from those who may lack confidence but are eager to get involved.
The next 2.5 years are set to be filled with exciting opportunities, from upcoming shows at Ollerton Jubilee Hall to new workshops and artistic initiatives. Whether you're an artist, a volunteer, or someone with a passion for creativity, this project invites everyone to join in with shaping the cultural future of these dynamic locations.
Want to be part of this creative journey? Reach out to Lesley to learn more about how you can get involved and contribute to the ongoing success of Creative Ollerton & Creative Edwinstowe!
We would like to thank Newark and Sherwood District Council for supporting the project.
Community Engagement Officer
Full-time
Lesley is responsible for recruiting and supporting promoters in the Live & Local networks. She liaises with local authorities and is the point of contact for promoters in Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire. She is also the Rural Hub Town officer for Ollerton and Edwinstowe.
Contact Lesley for: promoter recruitment and support and liaison with local authority officers in Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire; or contact Lesley if you live or work in Ollerton or Edwinstowe and would like to get involved with creating more arts opportunities in the area, or if you are an artist or potential partner organisation.
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