Young creatives in Somerset are being an offered an exciting opportunity to showcase their talent via a new sound commission, thanks to charity Somerset Film and the support of Arts Council England. The initiative, otherwise known as the Robert Richards Award, is designed for artists under the age of 20, and puts forth financial backing, access to materials, and the support of experts to help bring sound-based projects to life.

The sound commission encourages its participants to explore the concept of ‘sound art’ – a form of creative expression that pushes the boundaries, and may even go beyond, traditional music.

Sound art can include a variety of audio elements, examples being: found sounds, digitally produces audio, and perhaps even vocal performances. It is not simply music, although there may be musical element to the work. The intention is to create an artistic piece that utilises sound in innovative and expressive ways – this could be experimental music, a soundscape for a game, or a sound installation that transports listeners to a different time or location.

Deb Richardson, Creative Director at Somerset Film, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, commenting that “we’re excited to see what ideas are submitted. Sound art is different to making music, and just as expressive. [Somerset] is well-known for its music, so sound art is a great next step for those interested in producing work digitally. You don’t need previous experience of making sound art – we’re really open to supporting someone with a great idea for a piece”.

The Award is particularly focused on submissions that draw inspiration from Somerset or ones that explore pressing issues like the Climate Crisis. The work must be completed before March 2025 so it is important to consider any deadline for other coursework that may be pressing.

Those successful will receive a £300 cash award, with an additional £200 available to cover materials, performance fees, or software access fees. The final piece will also be exhibited publicly at the Engine Room in Bridgwater.

The award is named in honour of the late Robert Richards, who served as the Chair of Trustees for charity Somerset Film for over twenty years and who was deeply committed to supporting and nurturing emerging talent in the arts. Robert was a well-known figure in the Somerset community, notably for his work as a trustee for Glastonbury Abbey and his role at Glastonbury Festival.

Young creatives interested in applying for the Robert Richards Award can find further details and submit their proposals at www.somersetfilm.com/community. The deadline for applications is November 2024