The University of Warwick’s Arts Centre has been shortlisted for Community Engagement Project of the Year at the national Museums and Heritage Awards for its ‘Playing Out in Canley’ programme.

The global awards celebrate museums, galleries, and cultural and heritage attractions across the world.

Playing Out in Canley was a three-year programme of creative activity across the community of Canley (Coventry) and is a collaborative project between residents of Canley and Warwick Arts Centre. It is a highlight of the last decade of close partnership between the University and its closest neighbourhood, working together to support people who live locally.

The programme included setting up a thriving local samba band, hosting creative workshops, outdoor film screenings and an annual parade each summer.

Gemma Wright, Head of Creative Learning at Warwick Arts Centre, and Playing Out in Canley steering group member said: “We are thrilled that Playing Out in Canley has been shortlisted for the award and to be in such good company with the other programmes in our category. The programme is one of creativity, joy, community cohesion and social connection.

“At its heart is community voice and a group of passionate residents working to bring people together and embed creativity in the area. To have that recognised through the shortlist is just amazing. We wish all the nominees the best of luck and thank our funders Spirit of 2012 for supporting the project”.

Nor Aziz, Founder of Canley Pop-Up Cafe, Canley resident and Playing Out in Canley steering group member, added: “Playing Out in Canley is a co-production project working with the community at grassroots level.

“It has supported our aim to change the narrative of Canley and to show that it is a place of pride where good things happen and the community work together. On behalf of the Playing Out in Canley Steering Group I would like to thank the judges for shortlisting us for the award, we are delighted.”

Over the duration of the project, Warwick Arts Centre has worked collectively with community leaders, residents, and artists to deliver 263 community sessions across visual arts, poetry, movement and music for over 7,000 people.

It has also supported 27 local community events such as Pop-Up Cafes, fetes, and celebrations, delivered 600 art packs for people to get creative at home and developed 11 partnerships across community venues, schools and care homes.

The Playing Out in Canley steering group continue to meet regularly to build on the momentum and strength of the collaboration from the last few years. They aim to host another parade this year.