2025 in Action: Creativity Across the Black Country

2025 was a year of momentum, connection and meaningful creative activity for Creative Black Country. Across towns, neighbourhoods and shared spaces, creativity showed up in everyday places, shaped by local voices and delivered with partners who know their communities best.

Over the year we delivered 34 projects, creating space for people to take part in making, sharing and exploring creativity on their own terms. From workshops and drop-ins to larger public moments, 159 events took place across 39 venues throughout the Black Country, totalling 425 hours of activity. Libraries, community centres, high streets, galleries and outdoor spaces all became places where culture could be encountered close to home.

Participation remained at the heart of our work. In 2025, over 4,100 people took part in creative activity, supported by 55 volunteers who collectively gave 553 hours of their time. This generosity of energy and care continues to underpin so much of what makes our programmes possible.

We also worked alongside more than 250 partner organisations, from grassroots groups to established cultural institutions. The stories shared on our blog throughout the year reflect this collaborative approach, highlighting co-created projects, heritage-led activity, skills development and inclusive practice that responds to local need.

Taken together, 2025 shows the scale and depth of creative delivery happening across the Black Country. It is not just about numbers, but about sustained relationships, shared ownership and the belief that creativity belongs everywhere and to everyone.

As we move forward, these foundations continue to shape how we work, ensuring culture remains rooted in place, people and possibility.