Review: YO Arts Fest

“YO Arts Fest has brought together youth from all over Bristol, showing once and for all that art is not dead but in fact very much alive and needed,” said Vandna Mehta, manager of The Diverse Artists Network, as the evening festival drew to a close. “The creative community must be in alliance with each other to make it happen, because the arts are a therapy that has to be accessible for everyone.”

YO Arts Fest was a one-of-a-kind, high energy event where young people came away feeling inspired and with a deeper understanding as to what is possible to achieve, bearing witness to their peers’ immense potential whilst knowing that there are organisations out there that are willing to support their talents.

Soon after the event started, people were eagerly touring the stalls, seeking information from the participating social enterprises who were there to offer support to young people. These ranged from mentorship programmes centred around improving skills and learning professional etiquette, to endorsing budding young artists and ensuring that their desired outcomes could be achieved.

Many organisations, including Knowle West Media Centre, were active in helping individuals to take their first steps into the creative industries

Hosts Pravanya Pillay and Nia Evans opened the evening with a selection of live tunes by ACE performers that kept the audience glued to the spot.

Following the opener was a spirited performance by Devonta Ngozi, better known as DeloCx, a singer and rap artist. After leaving the stage he described the event as “light-hearted, positive and friendly”, adding: “Everyone is united and driven by creativity here. It’s a wonderful place to be.”

Over in the exclusive workshops area, unique perspectives on how to gain skills and enhance confidence were offered with the help of Conrico Steez. Another industry stalwart, Sad Ghost Club, provided useful nuggets of wisdom for zine production, aimed specifically at enhancing innovation, whilst encouraging all in attendance to have fun. Lois McKendrick’s bespoke collection of garments and fabrics also pulled a large crowd.

Artist Lauren Hill did a live painting that took shape as the night wore on

A live painting from the gifted Lauren Hill, a larger than life dynamic portrait, was intimate, expressive, and sensational.

Dancer Ade Sowemino took to the stage with a partner for an enigmatic performance. “It felt great to perform at YO Arts Fest,” he said. “I could engage with people on a personal level because we shared the same passion. Everyone was so attentive. It was uplifting to connect with the audience.”

The event exceeded all expectations and highlighted the vast pool of young talent local to the creative scene.

The spirit was echoed by Kim Jevon, an artist and fashion designer better known by the alias of Piffy: “The festival has given people the courage to step up and express their individuality. Don’t be afraid to showcase your work because YO Arts Fest has proven that there are many institutions that support and fund art culture.”

YO Arts Fest was an unusual collective effort to embrace creativity and unearth bright new talent in the community. “We have recognised young talent and empowered them to showcase their hard work,” said Grace Kress, creative director of PAPER Arts. “Let’s create more events like this all over Bristol.”