It's a core aim of ours to support the next generation of artists and arts audiences, which is why we have had some incredible, exciting collaborations with students and societies in the past. PLATFORM has made it even easier for students to share their emerging ideas and talent. Students submit event proposals (performances, workshops, talks, screenings and more) and pitch their ideas to a panel of Warwick Arts Centre staff. We support up to two student collaborations per term, and successful submissions are provided with a venue, budget, staffing and guidance on event planning and delivery.
In spring 2024, we collaborated with Sociology undergraduate student Topè Adebayo to produce her vision of a Valentine’s-themed workshop titled We Just Click. The workshop featured the brilliant Ayesha Jones, a Birmingham-based photographer, taking portraits of attendees. The photos were then printed and used as the centrepiece of attendees’ ‘love letters’ – to themselves, a friend, family member, or partner.
We spoke with Topè to hear more about her experience producing a PLATFORM event.
Why did you apply to the PLATFORM project?
I applied to the PLATFORM project because I really wanted the opportunity to tap into my creative side! I knew that I would like to help bring to life a creative event where people could come and have a nice time. It felt like there weren’t many avenues or schemes available to help me achieve this particular goal but after doing some looking around, I came to find out that the Arts Centre had an initiative that allowed students to get involved and host events with them. Warwick Arts Centre is a place I’m lucky to be familiar with thanks to being a student here and I thought it’d be a really good idea to apply to the project.
What was one highlight of the process (from pitching your idea to putting on the event)?
It’s hard to pick one highlight from the process because the whole journey of this event coming to life is pretty memorable to me. However, if I had to pick a highlight it would definitely be the event day itself! It was great seeing guests come to support the event and take part, it genuinely meant so much to me. A big thank you everyone who came!
What one thing have you learnt?
One thing I learned is to take it easy! Looking back, at times I felt pretty stressed and out of my depth – this probably came down to the fact I’d never done anything like this before and felt quite lost on how everything would work. However, things ended up working out alright and I’m glad.
What one thing will you take on with you into your studies/work as a developed or new skill?
One thing I’ll take on with me is to start believing in myself more! Sometimes it’s really easy to doubt yourself and worry that other people may not like or trust in your vision. I doubted myself a lot initially, particularly during the pitching process. Whilst it can feel very vulnerable putting yourself out there, please do it! It might end up working out really well! You miss 100% of the chances you don’t take. Ultimately, I’m glad I applied to the PLATFORM scheme, I definitely think the experience helped me to grow as a person and as a creative. This project taught me to believe in my ideas and that there are people out there who will be happy to support you.
I’d really like to use this chance to thank everyone that helped out in some way or came to the event, I really am grateful for you all. Thank you to Stella, Shomi, Fuad, Ebun, KJ, Steph.
And a special thank you Ayesha (please check out her work, she’s great!) and the Arts Centre team for helping me bring this to life. Hopefully this won't be the end of We Just Click!
