Projects

Southampton Forward is working on projects in partnership with a range of local organisations.

These range from intimate storytelling in homes to an annual mass participation project where everyone in the city, and beyond, can get involved.

CURRENT PROJECTS

Tapestry

TAPESTRY is a brand-new open-air festival of music and culture coming to Southampton’s Westquay Esplanade on 19–20 July 2025. Inspired by the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen, the event reimagines her connection to folk music with a fresh, global twist – featuring an eclectic mix of acclaimed artists and rising talent.

Set against the backdrop of the city’s medieval walls and with free entry, TAPESTRY offers a vibrant celebration of Southampton’s cultural identity.

Multi Stories

Now in its third year, Multi-Stories is returning to Westquay’s multi-storey car park, once again transforming the space into a vibrant, open-air street art gallery. Launched in 2023, the event has quickly become a highlight of Southampton’s cultural calendar – celebrating creativity, community and urban expression. Expect bold murals, live painting, music, skateboarding, breakdancing, and a bustling Maker’s Market – all taking place in the heart of the city.

Pub Cultures

Southampton Forward is looking for 9 pubs to be involved in a creative project in March 2025. Our Pub Cultures project centres around YOUR pub’s community. We want to celebrate local pubs with FREE workshops and an art installation, created by local artists.

SO: Governance

Join SO: Governance on Nov 29 for essential insights on building governance and resilience in Southampton’s non-profit sector

PAST PROJECTS

Home Theatre Southampton

Southampton Forward, in collaboration with Solent University and director Kerry Kyriacos Michael MBE, is launching an exciting project to highlight the experiences and heritage of people across the city.

City Reflections

City Reflections, coming to Southampton 15th-23rd February 2025, celebrates unsung community heroes.

Corner Shops

A unique collaboration with Solent University, celebrating the stories and history of the iconic British corner shop.

PAST PROJECTS

Emerge Youth Festival

Southampton’s youth, in partnership with SoCo Music and Southampton Forward, co-created a youth-driven festival, held at Hoglands Park on 7th September

PAST PROJECTS

SO: Inclusive

SO: Electronic

Southampton Forward partnered with local venues and SoCo Music Project for a weekend celebrating a side of Southampton’s incredible music heritage.

Multi Stories

Multi-Stories first took place in September 2023 and then again in May 2024. Find out more about the street art takeover of Westquay’s Multi-Storey Car Park