Art takes to the streets during Lytham Festival

From July 20 to August 14, the town is to host a project called Counterpart, which will feature a series of 12 place-based, temporary art features at a variety of locations.

The new £38,000 arts project is being led by Fylde Council in collaboration with the newly-established Arts Partnership for Fylde, who claim it will invite the public to view some of Lytham’s indoor and outdoor public spaces differently by showing them alternative ways for how each place can be considered and used.

Counterpart is supported by Lytham Festival organisers Cuffe and Taylor and Arts Council England’s Grants For Arts Programme, who have provided funding of £10,000 and £14,996 towards the project respectively.

Internationally-acclaimed art collective TEA has already signed up to the project, while a national call has now gone out to find other participants. A second call for Fylde-based artists who are new to working in community settings will go out next week.

Alex O’Toole, director of the Arts Partnership for Fylde, said: “The work of the Arts Partnership for Fylde is to champion and support artists, creative and cultural businesses operating in the Fylde and to encourage the community to develop stronger connections with the borough’s arts and cultural offer.

“So we’re delighted that Counterpart is going to provide paid opportunities for 16 artists, at least five of whom will be from Fylde, as well as a host of volunteer opportunities for recent local arts graduates and lots of community participation.”

Counterpart lead artist Christine Stringfellow, who also runs the Circles of Light - Fylde project, said: “I’m very excited about bringing this quality art experience to Lytham. There will be something for everyone. It’s an excellent.”

Peter Taylor, director Cuffe and Taylor and Lytham Festival, said: “One of the great things about Counterpart is that anyone and everyone can get involved and have a go at making art and music in celebration of the town during Lytham Festival week.”

Coun Cheryl Little, chairman of Fylde Council’s tourism and leisure committee, added: “The Council is very keen to ensure the success of Lytham Festival continues to benefit the wider community of Fylde.”