Dare to Dream: My Inspiration for a Collective Future in Derbyshire

Ever since I began working with communities and creativity, I've been fascinated by the power of collective imagination. This fascination inspired me to conceive "Dare to Dream," a mass participation art project inviting everyone in Derbyshire to imagine and actively shape a hopeful and inclusive future together.

Derbyshire has always inspired me, particularly its bold spirit of innovation. The county’s groundbreaking past - the birthplace of the world's first factory system in the 1700s - demonstrates how visionary thinking can change the world. This rich heritage sparked my desire to create a project that honours our past while dreaming boldly about our future.

I'm especially inspired by Derbyshire-born fashion icon Vivienne Westwood, who passionately urged us all to reject consumerism and embrace deeper, thoughtful creativity. Westwood believed profoundly that art bridges past, present, and future - a belief at the heart of "Dare to Dream." Through this project, I invite everyone to explore themes close to my heart, such as environmental responsibility, social justice, and cultural expression, embracing art and creativity as tools for meaningful change.

It’s important to me that this project is inclusive. Whether you're an artist, a first-time maker, or simply someone who wants to share their hopes, "Dare to Dream" welcomes you. Our approach of "rags to flags," inspired by the BBC’s The Great British Sewing Bee’s "Transformation" challenge, not only embraces sustainability but also embodies my personal commitment to environmental responsibility. By repurposing materials, we can creatively address contemporary issues and showcase our community's aspirations.

In this first year, our creations will symbolise individual and collective dreams, hopes, and aspirations. Each creation is a heartfelt contribution to a larger tapestry, proudly displayed to represent our collective vision for Derbyshire's future.

I warmly invite everyone to join us - to dream, create, and help build an inspiring legacy together.

Let’s dare to dream and collectively shape the Derbyshire we aspire to live in.

Claire Tymon, DM Creative Director