Scrap-built carnival artworks, giant puppets and performances will be created as part of a new inclusive carnival project starting this autumn.

Parade is Ragtag Arts’ biggest project to date, and will involve people of all ages and abilities, giving them the chance to learn new skills and build a carnival community together. 

Made possible through funding from Arts Council England and National Lottery Awards for All, the project will celebrate creativity, sustainability and community in Kendal and across Cumbria.

Josh Simpson, artistic director at Ragtag Arts, said: “For a long time we’ve wanted to build an inclusive carnival community here in Kendal, getting people together to create, make and celebrate together – and now we are.

“The scale of this project allows us to take things to the next level with our scrap-built creations and share those skills with a whole new group of people, building confidence and expertise together.

“So what are you waiting for? Sign up and join the Ragtag Parade starting this September.”

Starting in September, Parade will offer free opportunities for adults aged 16 and over via monthly making sessions, a weekly youth club for young people aged 11 to 15, and Big Carnival Art Days for families. 

The creative sessions will all contribute to parades and performances at seven festivals across the year-long project, with appearances planned at Barrow’s Festival of Colours, Kendal Pride, Kendal Calling, Harbour Fest in Whitehaven and Kendal Torchlight, plus more besides. And, the project will culminate in a grand exhibition where the carnival arts work created by the groups will go on display. 

Ragtag are also putting a focus on inclusivity, with people who have a learning disability or who are neurodiverse being especially welcome. Accessible spaces, sensory-aware sessions, an accessible minibus for transport and access support being provided by trained staff and volunteers, all aim to make the project open to everyone. 

As well as the sessions for members of the public, there are opportunities for people to train as volunteers, developing their skills in making artwork or providing access support. Plus, there’ll be special masterclasses led by experienced artists, open to creatives wanting to enhance their own knowledge. 

Emily Dewhurst, executive director of Ragtag Arts, added: “Inclusivity is at the heart of what we do, and this project will allow us to offer even more impactful opportunities, working with people over a longer time.

“Its incredibly exciting to have been funded by Arts Council England and National Lottery Awards for All to make this game-changing project a reality – it’s going to be fantastic for Kendal and the whole community. 

“And, of course, we’ll be carrying through our sustainable ethos throughout, making things out of stuff you might throw out.”

For more information or to sign up to take part in Ragtag Arts Parade visit www.ragtagarts.co.uk