ABOUT VERDEGRIS ARTS
Why we do this work ...
Every person carries stories, memories, experiences and ways of seeing the world that deserve to be heard.
At Verd de Gris Arts we create ambitious creative projects that begin with those stories.
Rather than starting with an art form, we begin by listening. We work alongside communities, organisations and individuals to understand what matters most, then bring together the artists, creative disciplines and partnerships needed to make those stories visible.
Sometimes that becomes theatre. Sometimes photography, music, podcasts, dance, poetry, film or public performance. Every project is different because every community is different. What remains constant is our belief that creativity can strengthen relationships, challenge perceptions and help people see themselves—and one another—with fresh eyes.
For more than twenty years we have worked across arts, health, education, heritage and community settings, collaborating with people of all ages and backgrounds. From schools and cultural organisations to people living with dementia, women rebuilding confidence, families exploring heritage and communities finding common ground, our work is shaped by curiosity, generosity and genuine collaboration.
Many of the people we first meet as participants continue their journey with us as volunteers, performers, advocates and creative leaders. Groups such as One Voice Collective are a testament to what happens when creativity is sustained over time—not simply producing projects, but building confidence, leadership and lasting community.
Our role is not to speak for people. It is to create the conditions in which people can speak, create and be recognised for who they are. We believe that when extraordinary human stories are shared with care, artistry and integrity, they have the power to transform not only those who tell them, but also those who encounter them.
That is the work we do.
Our Mission
Creativity for Lasting Change
Empowering people and communities to thrive.
At verd de gris arts, we use creativity to drive powerful, lasting social change.
Our work is rooted in humanity, connection, and the lived experiences of the communities we work within. Our mission is to:
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Bring People Together Across Divides
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Unite individuals from diverse backgrounds to foster understanding, empathy, and a shared sense of belonging.
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Co-Produce Transformative Projects
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Create life-changing, collaborative art with local communities, placing lived experience at the heart of everything we do.
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Address Social Issues Through Creativity
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Work side by side with communities to explore, understand, and respond to the social challenges they face using art as a tool for awareness and change.
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Create Powerful Artistic Moments
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Produce performances, happenings, and events that support open, sensitive conversations around identity, inequality, and shared humanity.
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Improve Mental Health and Wellbeing
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Boost confidence, reduce isolation, and promote emotional resilience through meaningful creative engagement and trauma informed approach.
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Support Personal Growth and Opportunity
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Help individuals build brighter futures by increasing access to skills, training, volunteering, and employment opportunities.
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Empower People To Make Positive Life Changes
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Provide the tools, encouragement, and supportive environment needed for people to take active steps toward living fuller, more confident lives.
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Build Deep, Trust-Based Relationships
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Work long-term with individuals and communities, nurturing trust and connection over time to support lasting impact.
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Collaborate for Wider Change
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Connect with stakeholders, organisations, and decision-makers on a local and national level to share knowledge, influence systems, and shape more compassionate policy and practice.
Our commitment to ALL the people of Calderdale
We have over 60 projects with stories of inspirational change and community action.
We also share our free creative resources to encourage everyone to become more creative.
Our most recent projects are supported by a range of funders including:
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The National Lottery Community Fund
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West Yorkshire Mayor’s Safer Communities Fund
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Postcode Neighbourhood Trust
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Give Bradford
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Calderdale MBC