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On meeting Nicola Greenan-Tammaro, I can immediately tell that there is something inspired about her. As the founder of Leeds-based organisation Art-stra, she is seeking to inject media joy into our city, and has been very busy since it all began in 2004. As Greenan-Tammaro explains with all the gusto of a proud parent, “Art-stra is an organisation that acts as a hub and as a connection to the whole creative sector in Leeds.”
Art-stra are a brilliant source for any budding music artist, filmmaker, journalist, actor, or anyone keen to find their way into the creative arts. With a blossoming reputation and backlog of successful, innovative events, The Hype is here to reveal Art-stra’s identity, primary motives and future aspirations.Greenan-Tammaro was initially motivated by wanting to be the person to insist upon a little order and communication within the creative chaos in the city, “There were so many activities and events going on, with no one knowing who they needed to contact, what sponsorships were available, or any existing venues. We have tried to create a community.”It was not easy for Art-stra to get the recognition and support they needed, “Not much funding is attracted to Leeds because it is seen as an economically growing, viable city.” Even now it can be tough, as there is perhaps not enough emphasis and awareness of creative ventures.
Greenan-Tammaro is realistic about Art-stra’s pursuits, “There are projects we’d love to do and ideas we want to follow through, but can’t afford to. It is about finding a balance.” Yet, whilst taking on the odd consultancy job, Greenan-Tammaro is adamant that Art-stra will never stray from the creative sector. Such a move would forsake Art-stra’s primary aims and motives; and they are passionate.Nothing has given Greenan-Tammaro more satisfaction that seeing her project 20/20/2 Vision arrive firmly on its feet and thrive. Launched in 2006 it takes place once a year at Easter with the help of Screen Yorkshire and Leeds Metropolitan University. It encourages collaboration between local musicians and filmmakers by asking people to make music videos, with the best twenty shown on the BBC big screen in Millennium Square.
With 160 artists involved and talks with local production Company Real Life Media to turn it into a TV programme, Greenan-Tammaro is keen for it to reappear next year, and once more ‘bring a real buzz to the city’. The Programme would see the event soar with even more people jumping aboard, and the possibility of winning bigger prizes. Filmmakers could get the opportunity to make a feature film with the winning band jetting off on a world tour. Art-stra thrives to combine different elements and aspects of the arts, introducing something sizzling with talent and originality. They have identified West Yorkshire Playhouse as a venue with great potential for showcasing some Leeds local talent. The events they hope to put on are in early stages of discussion, but Art-stra is confident that there is a lot to gain. “It’s a very underused venue. Acts are constantly struggling for venues in Leeds of that capacity and quality, and the Playhouse want younger, more diverse audiences.”So if the deal goes through, what sort of entertainment can we expect? Well, Art-stra is in love with local world music acts, big bands, and talented individuals offering a range of eclectic music that suits all tastes. The 20/20/2 Vision project saw acoustic, folk, heavy metal, Latin, indie, and even an Indian-Asian courtette band. Art-stra are enthusiastic about giving under-represented, under-resourced or poorly managed potential a chance in the spotlight. Greenan-Tammaro says, “It’s just a bit different, and would be great to have a real fusion happening in one room, in one night.”
If you are looking for some advice, or a route into the arts, you could not appeal to a more approachable team. Art-stra previously offered work placements but found that with such a small business there were high demands and expectations. “There was too much pressure, and a hell of a lot of responsibility.” But as a major link to the cities art resources they are an ideal contact. “If we can’t help you specifically, we can put you in touch with someone who can.” They recently made possible a great work opportunity with The Wardrobe for a third year student on a music degree, and are enthusiastic to help people succeed in this often tough industry. Greenan-Tammaro uses her judgment when matching people to placements, as she has Art-stra’s reputation on the line. They offer useful information for graduates and anyone searching for a rung on the creative ladder.
From talking to Greenan-Tammaro, I can tell she has not sacrificed the integrity of her company and is still determined to keep it firmly rooted in the arts world. I am impressed by the dedication to the individual, and the lengths Art-stra travels to tailor their advice and assistance. Speaking of the 20/20/2 ision event, she commented, “Once the event’s finished, it’s not about just stopping. You’ve created a new family.” Art-stra accepts that there is no fixed formula for anyone, and it is incredibly important to get the right help from the right people. Who better than a company so well connected and personable, that has not lost any youthful excitement about the work they do. “If we can keep the integrity of what we do, and get paid for it, I’ll be happy”, concludes Greenan-Tammaro.
The Art-stra website is undergoing a major re-vamp this month, so keep your eyes on:www.arts-stra.co.uk/about.html.
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