Arts project puts up money for Larkin memorial grants

The 40 giant fibreglass toads that were installed across the city last year in the Larkin With Toads project were auctioned off after being enjoyed by residents and visitors, and the money is now being reinvested in the arts.

Larkin25, the group which delivered a series of events to mark the 25th anniversary of the poet’s death last December, has announced the launch of two schemes for artists living in Hull and the East Riding.

The Larkin25 Arts Award is a single annual grant of up to £3,000 for “exceptional” arts projects in the city. Priority will be given to projects centred around the new cultural quarter in the former Fruit Market area in Humber Street.

This is open to people working in any discipline, including literature, performance and film.

The Larkin25 Words Award is to support the development of literature, from creative writing to text-based arts, and provides an annual grant of up to £2,000.

Rick Welton, vice chairman of Larkin25, said: “Much of the success of Larkin25 was down to the massive energy and commitment of our region’s artists. We always envisaged a strong legacy from the programme to keep Philip Larkin’s poetry and life in the public attention.

“These awards will support and encourage local arts initiatives and act as a further reminder of Larkin’s links to the area.”

Applications for the first grants must be submitted by October 3. For details on how to apply call (01482) 320021 or visit [email protected].