02.03.25 I blogged excerpts of my Art's Council England application for MY MUM IS WHITE. Congratulations to us. We got the dough. Here is the amazing, A*, Art's Council appraisal.

Outcomes, Elements and Inclusivity and Relevance

* Is the project as described in the application likely to make a difference against the Outcomes and Element(s)? Why?

The project presents a concept that blends memoir writing, visual art, and psychological exploration to examine the mixed-race experience in Britain. The central idea—using 8'x 8' mind-maps to visually and emotionally unpack personal and collective histories—is both culturally resonant and artistically ambitious. 

The application demonstrates strong ambition through its scale, structure, and partnerships. The project spans 32 days at HOME, transforming the gallery into a living installation. It involves a team of experienced collaborators, including a clinical psychologist, curator, and grief counsellor, and is supported by HOME, the University of Manchester, and the Whitworth. The applicant has a proven track record of delivering impactful projects, such as Reno @ The Whitworth, and has secured significant match funding and in-kind support.

 The project clearly identifies the difference it aims to make: to give voice to underrepresented mixed-race narratives.

 The project strongly aligns with ACE’s Outcomes: it engages the public as participants (Creative People), centres on a specific community (Cultural Communities), and supports professional development for creative practitioners (Creative and Cultural Country.

 * Is the project as described in the application likely to make a difference to the people and communities experiencing it? Why?

 There are convincing plans to ensure the target community—mixed-race individuals—can access and feel welcomed by the project. The applicant outlines a multi-channel outreach strategy, including community-specific platforms, social media via collaborators, and support from HOME and the University of Manchester.

 Barriers to access, such as emotional vulnerability and institutional workload, are thoughtfully addressed. Grief counselling is integrated into the project. 

The applicant has clearly considered and planned for both immediate and sustained community involvement.

* Making a difference rating:

Choose one option that applies from the following list:

Ø  Strong likelihood of making a difference

 Good likelihood of making a difference

 Some likelihood of making a difference

 Limited likelihood of making a difference (not recommended for funding)

 Likelihood of achieving aims

 Project feasibility

 * Is the project feasible as presented in the application?

Choose one option that applies from the following list:

Ø   Yes

No

* Is the project feasible as presented in the application?

The project has strong, appropriate partnerships in place. All partners are confirmed and contribute significant in-kind support, demonstrating strong buy-in and collaboration.

The match funding is substantial and appropriate for the scale and ambition of the project, with over 50% of the total budget provided in-kind and through public funding.

The budget is detailed, balanced, and appropriate for the planned activity. All items are relevant and well-justified, including materials, staffing, and accessibility. Fair pay is clearly demonstrated. The applicant and partners have experience managing similar budgets, and the financial plan is realistic.

All income is confirmed. Risks are well-considered, including emotional safety, group dynamics, and delivery challenges. Mitigations are thoughtful and realistic, including safeguarding protocols, participant support, and structured planning.

 The project is well-planned, with a clear timeline and achievable milestones. The applicant and team have the skills and experience to deliver the project successfully, and the planning reflects a deep understanding of the project's aims and community impact.

Investment Principles

* Is the project as described in the application likely to achieve what the applicant wants it to? Why?

The applicant clearly articulates the personal and professional experiences that led to this project, building on previous work such as Reno @ The Whitworth. This project is a natural evolution, scaling up both conceptually and physically, and now is the right time to deliver it given the momentum and partnerships in place.

Evaluation is embedded throughout, with structured analysis phases, participant feedback, and a post-project evaluation event. The applicant will use mind-mapping and 12-word writing techniques to gather insights, ensuring both qualitative and reflective evaluation. The project’s legacy is well considered.

 Environmental responsibility is addressed through the reuse of materials, a second-hand flight case for transport, and plans to establish a depot for sharing resources. These actions are realistic and demonstrate leadership in sustainable practice.

 Inclusivity is central. The project is co-designed with mixed-race practitioners and shaped by lived experience. The team reflects the community it aims to reach, and barriers to access—emotional, institutional, and cultural—are thoughtfully addressed through safeguarding, fair pay, and targeted outreach. The project is deeply relevant and responsive to the needs of the mixed-race community.

* Likelihood of achieving aims rating:

Choose one option that applies from the following list:

Ø  Strong likelihood of achieving aims

 Good likelihood of achieving aims

 Some likelihood of achieving aims

 Limited likelihood of achieving aims (not recommended for funding)