We’re launching three new creative commissions to disrupt loneliness in unique and interesting ways in Peterborough.
Created by artists, each selected project features ideas that will bring moments of laughter and connection, in ways which are incidental and that might go on to be long-lasting. These three projects have been chosen by a citizen-led panel, made up of Peterborough residents from different walks of life across the city, and are part of The Unlonely City project, a programme taking place at Metal’s other sites as well. The Unlonely City programme is funded by Paul Hamlyn Foundation as part of the Arts Award.
Learn more about how we trialled a new way of commissioning artistic work with our citizen-led creative action panels here.
At Metal Peterborough, we’re working with Rose Croft, Sarah Saxby and Wild Roots Collective. Find out more about each of the ideas and the artists below.
Art Lockers with Rose Croft
Rose will be creating a series of Art Lockers that will tour various community places and spaces across Peterborough. Each locker will have a piece of artwork that can be taken, as well as a chance for people to put their own artworks in.
Rose is a socially engaged artist, storyteller and creative producer, dedicated to creating safe, accessible spaces that foster connection through art, story, and nature. Their practice is rooted in the belief that creative experiences can inspire joy, strengthen personal and community resilience, and deepen cultural connection.
Rose regularly works with arts organisations, charities, community groups, schools and festivals. They are one half of the not-for-profit arts organisation Art Pop-Up and the founder of the producer-led collective Angry Pencil. Rose has shared stories and delivered workshops both locally and internationally for over 14 years.
Stick and Scratch with Sarah Saxby
Sarah will be working with YMCA Community Hub in Bretton on Stick and Scratch, a youth produced performance night featuring local creatives.
Sarah Saxby is a queer writer, actor, facilitator, and youth worker hailing from the Fens. She’s been working with arts organisations across East Anglia since 2020 to produce and deliver creative work for local communities, including Norfolk & Norwich Festival, YMCA Trinity Group, and Menagerie Theatre. In 2022, Sarah co-founded Sticks Theatre, through which her first play, ‘Fourteen in ‘14’ was produced, following a year-long residency at the Key Theatre. Sarah’s artistic work is rooted in her identity as someone from the Fens and can be described as both intimate and outlandish, personal and alienating. Crucially, it always draws on themes relatable and important to those not accessing traditional theatre.
A Banquet of Hope with Wild Roots Collective
Wild Roots Collective will be hosting a Banquet of Hope in the springtime, for those living with long-term chronic illnesses.
Wild Roots Collective is a creative collaboration between artist Lizzie Ault, chef Mandy Mazliah and storyteller/song leader Marianne Powell. Together they create experiences that bring people together through connection and conversations, sparking imagination and creativity. They combine their artforms to make for a sensory, inclusive experience. Participants describe their workshops as inspiring, interesting, relaxing and fun.
The commissions, including events and projects will take place in Peterborough between January and March 2026. Watch this space and join us to disrupt loneliness in the city.
