What We Do

[Agri]Culture is a way of thinking about rural touring differently.

As part of a collaborative network of partners & communities, we re-imagine how and why our towns and villages in Devon engage with culture on their doorsteps. We want to open up the way our rural communities enjoy and grow new creative opportunities. To do this, we are growing a network of locally rooted co-curators who imagine and shape new creative projects with us, inspired by what their communities want and need.

At its heart, this model is about making work together, and making work happen together. Participatory activities, artist residencies and creative skills opportunities run alongside invitations to host and see visiting performances. Our aim is that, over time, this culturally-driven action-network will grow meaningful social & cultural capital within rural communities.

To do this, Villages In Action runs three main areas of activity that often connect and overlap to grow opportunities across the region:

PRESENT: Platforming excellent performance work in Devon’s rural spaces

We bring high quality performances to rural venues including village halls, schools, libraries, farms, village greens and other community spaces across Devon

CULTIVATE: Community participation & co-creation

Through our network model, we work with village leads & community partners to develop projects that support local need and reach those least served by cultural & creative opportunities in our region

NURTURE: Developing Creatives

Our aim is to support artists who want to make work and have a sustainable career where they live in rural Devon

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement

We are a small charity with big aims. We will instigate conversations within communities, sharing transformative, diverse stories and experiences. We are stronger together. We believe that everyone should have access to creative opportunities. We are curious and open to learning. We embrace difference, and we welcome everyone to join our journey, leading our network by example.

Artists

We believe in long-term, genuine relationships with artists. There are lots of ways to collaborate, depending on your interests and the needs of our communities. These include:

Artist residencies
Programming opportunities across our network of community venues
Talent development and producer support
Partnership projects
Support with shaping or testing new ideas

Interested in working with us in 2027 and beyond?

Please note we are not currently open to artist applications, however if you are currently writing a development proposal and looking for our support please outline your project, proposed timeline and the specifics of your ask by emailing info@villagesinaction.co.uk. If we are interested in taking your proposal forward we will be in touch with you within the next 12 weeks.