We recently re-launched Acton Library as a community hub, with new facilities and multipurpose spaces that can be used for cultural events and performances.
Y-Our Story is a year-long set of activities transforming Acton Library into a vibrant creative storytelling hub. Through artist residencies and community-led workshops, the project will spotlight local voices and experiences via images, objects, and illustration. It celebrates the area’s diversity, builds long-term creative partnerships, and ensures inclusive access to the arts.
The project aims to:
- Engage the community and local arts organisations.
- Deliver artist/storyteller residencies.
- Showcase emerging and established local talent through exhibitions and live events.
- Establish Acton Library as a recognised community cultural hub.
We spoke to Rachel from Artification who is helping to organise Y-Our Story.
Tell us about you
My personal, research and professional experiences are very much focused on creating connections and opportunities for expression and creativity. In my role as Director of ARTification (Acton Arts Charity est. 2003) this takes the form of accessible arts experiences celebrating arts, culture and community.
Tell us about Y-Our Story in your own words
The Visual Stories of Acton year-long project will provide numerous opportunities for the 
community to get involved in literary, poetic, artistic, illustrative tasters and events.
There will be numerous opportunities to tell Y-our Story, share/write/draw/ express/create at Acton Library, W3 gallery and North Acton Pavilion. The project culminates in a Y-Our Story book and touring exhibition. Taste different creature and cultural experiences, make your mark, tell your story in pictures or words.
How are have the community been involved so far?
Acton’s diverse communities were involved in the project design when we were writing a bid for funding from the Arts Council England. The project is being delivered by a rich mix of creatives and has already attracted interest from our diverse communities.
We are working with cultural partners delivering different elements of the project. Storytellers, poets, artists, illustrators, musicians, publishers and community activists.
What do you hope will come out of the project?
An emerging new community of creatives who have built confidence, found voice, shared stories, built relationships, connected with others. More creative opportunities and experiences for the community.
To find out more, get in touch with Rachel at Rachel@Artification.org.uk.