Earlier this year we announced the first 12 projects who were awarded funding as part of the Fellowship Funding programme.
Martyn Louke’s Pride in the Borough, which will highlight the importance of LGBT inclusion in everyday transport environments, is one of these projects. We caught up with him to find out more…
In a nutshell, what is Pride in the Borough?
It’s a project to bring Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trans (LGBT) inclusion to Waltham Forest – one of London’s most diverse boroughs. In short I have a plan to makeover everyday parts of the borough and give them a bit of colour whilst sending a signal of strong support to the LGBT community. I call this “mainstreaming diversity”.
What can people expect from the project?
I can’t reveal too much at the moment but I’m working with both national and local businesses to bring something exciting to the borough! It’s very thrilling as I’ve had so much interest since the Fellowship Funding announcement was made. I’m so thankful to the Waltham Forest Borough of Culture 2019 for supporting my project.
Why is it important that this project is happening now as part of London Borough of Culture 2019?
Culture is something that affects all communities. LGBT inclusion affects all groups; we cross every boundary and are a part of all communities. This is the perfect time to demonstrate this.
What artists or individuals from Waltham Forest inspire you and why?
There are some fabulous LGBT icons including Matthew Bourne who are connected with the borough. What’s not been done before is celebrating our culture as being so influential.
What advice would you give to anyone applying for Fellowship Funding?
What I would say is to think carefully about what makes your idea unique. Don’t be afraid to be bold and make sure it’s an enjoyable experience for everybody.
To find out more about the project visit wfculture19.co.uk/prideintheborough