A selection of creative and community work

Creative Roots brings together a series of participatory art projects developed in and around Bicester, celebrating creativity, belonging, and community collaboration. These projects were led or co-led by myself, as Bumble Creatives CIC in partnership with local artists, schools, and community groups, each exploring how creativity can connect people, tell shared stories, and bring pride to local places. This is a glimpse into the spirit of our work, through images, reflections, and voices from those who took part.

A town glowing with creativity
Before OYAP (Oxfordshire Youth Arts Partnership) closed in 2023, I coordinated and led their annual Lantern Parade. A much-loved highlight of Bicester’s winter calendar, bringing schools, families, and artists together to light up the town centre before the Christmas lights switch-on.

Passing the torch
In the final year of the parade, Bumble Creatives CIC took the project over, working with local artist Kiki Black to deliver lantern-making workshops across five primary schools and a drop-in session for the wider community.

Lighting up the streets
More than 250 people made lanterns, and over 300 took part in the parade, filling the streets with glowing shapes, laughter, and music. The atmosphere was incredible; a true celebration of creativity, connection, and community pride.

A tradition worth rekindling
Since OYAP’s closure, the Lantern Parade has not been continued by the Town Council and it’s deeply missed. For many, it symbolised the warmth and togetherness of Bicester in winter. We hope to bring this beautiful, collaborative event back to life as part of Bumble Creatives’ next chapter.

Stronger Together through art and collaboration 

As Bumble,  I led the Bicester Schools Arts Festival, coordinating workshops, Arts Awards, and the exhibition to celebrate creativity, collaboration, and community connection.

Guiding Young Artists
Working with community artist Emily Cooling, Bumble Creatives supported pupils from five local primary schools to explore the theme ‘Stronger Together’. Each school created silk batik banners that reflected their identity and values, while every child achieved a Discover Arts Award, earning a certificate from Trinity College London.

A Celebration for Everyone
All 15 banners were displayed at Bicester Library, transforming the space into a vibrant showcase of young talent and community pride.

Partnerships, Support & Funding
The festival was delivered in collaboration with the Bicester Schools Art Network, supported by OxyGen North (Cultural Education Partnership) and funding from Cherwell District Council’s Wellbeing Arts team via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

Connecting Community Through Creativity
By leading this festival, Bumble Creatives CIC continues to create inclusive, engaging arts experiences, connecting schools, young people, and the wider community across Bicester.

Creating Community Through Light and Story

In collaboration with local artist Big Orange M, we coordinated the Stained Glass Effect Project, delivering an inclusive creative programme that brought together young people, adult community members, and the local home-school community from across Bicester.

From Consultation to Creation
The project began as a creative consultation with one secondary school, but quickly grew to involve two youth community groups, home-schooled children, and local adult refugees. Participants explored light, colour, and personal storytelling, designing stained glass-inspired panels that expressed individual journeys and shared hopes for community and belonging.

A Visible Celebration of Collaboration
The panels were publicly displayed in Bicester Library, transforming ordinary windows into glowing, collaborative artworks that brought the wider community together. This project showcased how small beginnings can grow into a powerful intergenerational and multi-community creative experience.

Partnerships, Support & Funding
The project was supported by local schools, youth groups, home educators, and community organisations, and funded by Cherwell District Council, highlighting the value of collaboration, inclusion, and co-creation in building meaningful, community-rooted arts projects.

Bumble Creatives in Action
Through this project, Bumble Creatives CIC demonstrated its commitment to inclusive, accessible arts experiences, fostering creativity, confidence, and connection across diverse groups in Bicester.