Since 1977, Fusion Arts has been leading creative projects to bring artists and communities into dialogue with each other, and with their latest, they're getting more hands-on than ever. The charity is in the process of transforming empty buildings in Oxford into collective spaces for art and performance, an initiative that premiered to the public in September with the three-day installation/art fair DEPOT. We caught up with the team to discuss the thinking behind the project, the importance of community art spaces and their plans for the future.
Daily Information: First of all, thank you so much for taking the time to tell us about this project. Before we start, can you tell our readers a little bit about Fusion Arts and its work in the past?
Fusion Arts: Sure! Fusion Arts is all about connecting artists with communities to spark creative projects that promote social justice and celebrate diversity. Our mission is to create dynamic, participatory artistic experiences that really make a difference, whether it's tackling climate justice, equality, or other urgent social issues. We’ve been doing this important work for years, originally known as Bloomin’ Arts, right in the heart of East Oxford since 1977.
While our base at the East Oxford Community Centre is being rebuilt, we’ve relocated to Gloucester Green and other spaces to keep our projects going strong. Our work stretches across Oxfordshire and beyond, and you might know us from some local events like Oxford’s Light Festival and Oxford Windrush Festival. Fusion also works with BBC Children in Need to provide creative art activities to children with speech, language and communication difficulties. Everything we do is focused on connecting people, art, and important causes in a meaningful way.
DI: What sort of changes can we expect to see in the properties Fusion Arts is transforming?
Fusion: The properties Fusion Arts is transforming will undergo exciting changes that focus on creating vibrant, community-driven spaces. You can expect to see more open, flexible environments designed to host a wide range of creative activities—from workshops and exhibitions to performances and collaborative projects. These spaces will be inclusive and welcoming, making it easier for people from all backgrounds to engage with the arts.
We're also partnering with local businesses, groups, and organizations that might otherwise struggle to find space in the heart of Oxford, whether for meetings, rehearsals, or storage. These spaces will truly serve the community’s needs.
At its core, this transformation is about turning these properties into dynamic cultural hubs where art, community, and social impact can thrive together.
DI: Why is it important to build community-led use of venues like these? What can we do as a collective to help make art more accessible to the general public?
Fusion: Building community-led use of venues like these is so important because it gives people a sense of ownership and belonging in the spaces they engage with. When the community is directly involved, venues become more than just places for art; they become hubs where people can connect, express themselves, and address local issues. It also ensures that the programming reflects the needs, interests, and diversity of the community, making art more relevant and accessible to everyone.
We can help make art more accessible by supporting inclusive, participatory events and projects that welcome people from all walks of life. Encouraging free or low-cost entry to exhibitions, workshops, and performances can break down financial barriers. We can also amplify diverse voices in the arts, ensuring that marginalized communities are heard and represented. Volunteering, collaborating with local artists, or simply showing up and participating can help create an environment where art truly feels like it's for everyone.
DI: What activities and events can we look forward to from these new spaces?
Fusion: True to Fusion’s style, events and activities will emerge organically and evolve as we go.
Upcoming events in November include a pop-up art and book sale, as well as an exhibition focused on Black history archives. Artwork by three Oxford-connected artists from the global majority is currently on display in the windows of Park End Street, viewable 24/7. We're also exploring ways to support the grassroots music scene, much like we did in East Oxford for many years, so watch this space for live music towards the end of the year.
DI: When will the new venues be open to the public? Are you doing anything to celebrate?
Fusion: This is going to be a lengthy process, but we’re looking forward to opening all of our venues in the coming months.
At the end of September, Fusion Arts, along with our partners, launched DEPOT — a three-day art event in Oxford, held in one of our new spaces on Park End Street. DEPOT brought fresh voices from the contemporary art world to the city, featuring nine national galleries and solo exhibitions by international contemporary artists for its 2024 edition.
In line with Fusion Arts’ commitment to community, we introduced Focus, highlighting the work of three Oxford-connected artists from the global majority. On the final day, we opened our doors for a day of creativity and conversation, welcoming people of all ages and artistic backgrounds. It was wonderful to see the space come alive as participants created posters that filled our windows —a beautiful reminder that art truly is for everyone! Focus artists Valerie Asiimwe Amani, Jermaine Francis, and Sunil Shah generously shared their personal journeys and insights with an attentive audience.
Seeing 15 Park End Street come to life in this way was incredibly inspiring, offering a glimpse of the space’s potential to continue fostering connections and creativity. We’re excited to explore the possibilities and to keep inviting the community along on this journey with us.
DI: Where can we follow Fusion Arts to keep up to date with this and future projects?
Fusion: Follow us on social media @fusionartsox across multiple platforms. Head to our website and make sure that you sign up to our newsletter!
DI: Finally, describe what to expect from these new spaces in five words.
Fusion: Inclusive, vibrant, creative, dynamic, fun.