We are seeking to commission an artist or company to co-produce and co-create work in response to the significant heritage of Lea Marsh and its communities.

Undercurrent is a new creative programme led by Revoluton Arts. Undercurrent will include commissions, projects and participatory activities across a range of artforms, co-created with communities, creatives and partners along the stretch of the River Lea, from Luton to London. At the Luton end we are exploring three focal points, clustered around Marsh House: Marsh House itself (with origins in Exodus free raves and social action in the 1990s); Luton Urban Radio (with origins in Luton’s reggae sound systems in the 1970s); the punk gig in the Nissen Hut (late 1970s) and the punk movement’s relevance in combating racism, including the mobilisation of young people in the anti-racist movement.

We are seeking to commission an artist or company, to work collaboratively in co-producing new work that is co-created with Luton residents (Lutonians). Commissioning funds are available for artists from a diverse range of disciplines to create a presentational piece, and to co-create and engage with people within and near to Marsh Farm, Luton. The commissioned work must respond specifically to Lea Marsh location and its cultural heritage.

In keeping with the themes of Undercurrent, we are interested in proposals that work within and to the 2024 dates for the Autumn Equinox (22 September) and Winter Solstice (21 December). The commissioned activity and associated evaluation must complete by the end of January 2025.

For further details, including how to apply, please download the commission brief.

Deadline for applications: Sunday 2 June 2024, 23:59 hrs.