Case Studies
By the time UKCCA has opened its doors in Spring 2009 we will have developed a suite of compelling case studies that will showcase the plethora of carnival related business that we have helped. We are always delighted to hear ‘good news’ stories about carnival related business and best practice. If you want to share your carnival business success story please get in touch (link to info@email address). You may just inspire someone else to follow in your footsteps!
Colin Spalding - Cr8mas
Colin is recognised as one of the UK’s leading carnival costume makers. Based in Luton, he has contributed to and benefited from the work of UKCCA.
Colin first became involved in carnival in the 1980s whilst working as a youth worker at the Starlight Youth Club which had a history of a carnival entry, supported by the council. With no artistic or carnival background, Colin was handed the responsibility of organising the group’s entry:
“We did the best we could – I didn’t do art at school and I wasn’t into it – but we won and after getting that feeling of winning it pushes you on a bit more for the next year. We won that as well and I kind of thought ‘yes I can do this!”
“After that we kept going and we were getting better. People were telling me I was developing as an artist and once you start believing you’re an artist, the sky’s the limit.”
Colin was very active in the formation of the Luton Carnival Arts Development Trust, of which he was the Chair for several years as well being on the board of other carnival related groups such as Rampage Carnival Club.
The Trust helped to promote the Rampage band as representatives for Luton in carnivals around the country and managed the group’s bookings. As an artist, Colin has also received support from LCADT in terms of networking, business opportunities and promotion.
In December 2007 Colin gave up his job with Safer Luton Partnership to work full time in carnival arts and focus on developing his company, Cre8mas. In January 2008 he visited Trinidad where he worked with the legendary Stephen Derek and D’Midas Associates on the delivery of the award winning ‘Mas, Mas. This is mas.’ Masquerade band.
In February Colin travelled to Israel to learn about the landscape and culture of the State in anticipation of a project in June 2008 celebrating the 60th anniversary of the State of Israel. Colin is currently working on the design and build of 18 large scale mobile displays for a procession through central London. During February and March Colin also visited Nice in the South of France and the Isle of Wight making costumes for local events and carnivals.
“I have absolutely no regrets in giving up my previous job and the security that I had. UKCCA has been instrumental in my growth as an artist and has provided me with the support and space to carve out and develop my own unique business and career in the creative industries and Carnival arts.”
Colin is a shining example of the power of enterprise inherent in carnival. His creativity and vision have been a driving force that have enabled him to realise his ambitions as one of the leading mas makers in the country. His constant pursuit of excellence and pushing the boundaries is a direct reflection of the approach that UKCCA takes in developing and supporting fledgling carnival enterprise. Cre8mas is more than a creative business, it’s proof that with the right support and encouragement everyone can have the opportunity to make a difference in their own lives and the lives of others.
UKCCA are very proud of our role in helping to facilitate these success stories.
If you want to share your carnival business success story please get in touch.