Welcome to Arts Diverse-City

Arts Diverse-City, operating as a (CIC), has a multifaceted mission…

Our primary focus is addressing the profound need for cultural diversity, inclusion, and heritage awareness within Gloucester's communities. We recognise that our city is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and histories, yet it's essential to ensure that every resident feels a sense of belonging and that their unique heritage is valued. Through our extensive range of artistic and cultural initiatives, we provide a safe and inclusive space where diverse voices can flourish.

Our support for diverse communities works by creating avenues for creative expression, storytelling, and shared experiences. We believe that the arts serve as a powerful medium to foster unity, encourage dialogue, and challenge stereotypes. By organizing workshops, performances, exhibitions, and educational activities, we allow individuals from different backgrounds to come together, appreciate one another's cultures, and build lasting connections. Our work extends beyond entertainment; it serves as a catalyst for social change, promoting cultural understanding, and celebrating the diverse tapestry that makes up Gloucester, and its surrounding area.

Arts Diverse-City Community Interest Company, with registration number 14119318, represents a significant milestone in our journey as a dynamic organization committed to fostering creativity, inclusivity, and raising awareness of critical social issues. This statement aims to articulate the rich history of The R S Collective, contextualise the emergence of Arts Diverse-City, and underscore our commitment to accurate reporting and compliance with relevant regulations.

The R S Collective, comprised of skilled individuals, coalesced with a shared purpose — to organise events to showcase fashion events that shed light on disability, mental health, elderly care, and cultural multiplicity. What began as a grassroots gathering, celebrating the diversity of unpaid carers, has flourished into a thriving hub for creativity within the Arts. Today, we proudly commemorate 10 years of organising impactful events in Gloucestershire.

In 2017, a transformative partnership between Diverse City and Forest Bathing, and support from Barnwood Trust laid the foundation for collaborative projects, aligning our mission with Gloucestershire communities and stakeholders. Subsequently, in 2019, a broader collaboration involving Diverse City, City Council, BBC radio, National Water Ways, GFM radio, Peel Centre, Gloucester BID, Art Shape, Strike Alight, Voices, Create Gloucestershire, individual artists, organisations, was established. These partnerships have fueled a multitude of ideas, and from past collaborative projects, creativity continues to thrive.

Since the 1990s, The R S Collective has been organising community events, stage shows, exhibitions and projects, all non-profit endeavors aimed at raising awareness within Gloucestershire's multicultural communities. Pioneering efforts in highlighting health issues such as Adult Health Sickle Cell and Thalassemia, Lupus, and MS, and opening doors to awareness on Downs Syndrome and learning needs, underscore our commitment to addressing critical health concerns.

In response to the evolving needs of our organisation, RSCollective took a strategic step in incorporating as a Private Company Limited by Guarantee without share capital, with Company Number 13795671 on December 12, 2021. This step laid the groundwork for the formal establishment of Arts Diverse-City, officially incorporated in May 2022 with registration number 14119318.

Arts Diverse-City is not merely a creative initiative; it is a manifestation of our collective vision, commitment to social impact, and dedication to promoting diversity and awareness. As we embark on this new chapter, we assure our stakeholders that Arts Diverse-City will be reported accurately, reflecting our organisation's history and complying with all relevant regulations.

Valerie Simms (Director Arts Diverse-City)

Events & Projects 

“Arts Diverse-City has been a game-changer for my business. The platform provided me with the opportunity to showcase my handmade pottery to a wider audience. The support and encouragement from the community have been invaluable. I highly recommend Arts Diverse-City to all artists and crafters.”

— Emily Johnson

Statement on the Evolution of RSCollective into Arts Diverse-City CIC

The journey of RSCollective, shaped by a passion for community engagement and inclusivity, has led us to a transformative evolution, culminating in the formal establishment of Arts Diverse-City Community Interest Company in May 2022, with registration number 14119318.

Recognizing the imperative to be more than just a festival and to embrace the broader spirit of community inclusiveness, the name "Diversity Festival" swiftly evolved into "Diverse-City." This shift in nomenclature encapsulates our commitment to being a welcoming space for all, fostering diversity, and embracing the rich tapestry of cultural backgrounds that make up our community.

Arts Diverse-City CIC is not merely a name; it represents a steadfast extended arm to community inclusion and well-being. Our initiatives have been instrumental in touching lives from diverse backgrounds, with a particular emphasis on addressing the unique needs of Black Culture.

Throughout our journey, Arts Diverse-City has spearheaded impactful projects that raise awareness and celebrate cultural heritage. Notable among these projects include "Changes in Waves Windrush 75," a poignant event held at the historic Gloucester Docks in June 2022. Additionally, we have been at the forefront of organizing International Women events for the past five years at the All Nation Community Centre, a vital hub owned by the community.

Our commitment to fostering awareness extends to Black History Month, marked by talks, exhibitions, and exhibits that delve into the rich tapestry of Black history and culture. The Guildhall Centre in the heart of the city has been a prominent venue for our performances, showcasing the talents of local artists and engaging with the community.

We take pride in collaborating with amazing organizations and artists who have enriched our journey. Special gratitude goes to Soh-Fit, Lela Thomas, Icilda's Kitchen, Selinna Juke, Isobel Edward, Jay Ray, Leanne Parnell, Julia Eastwood, Donville Williams, and Annet Richard-Binns. Their unwavering support has been integral to the success of Arts Diverse-City.

As we continue to grow and evolve, Arts Diverse-City remains committed to being a beacon of creativity, inclusion, and community impact. We look forward to further engaging with our community, nurturing partnerships, and creating meaningful experiences that celebrate the diversity and cultural richness that define Arts Diverse-City.