Helping an arts centre take centre stage

Some things only happen when you’re in the room. The connection between a performer and an audience. An exhibition that fires your imagination. A moment shared with strangers that stays with you long after you leave. We helped Barnsley Civic build a brand around the experiences you have to be there for.

Barnsley Civic was entering a new chapter, with a changing programme, a transformed building and ambitions to reach further across the borough and beyond. But audience research revealed a challenge: people saw it as somewhere to watch an artist they already knew, rather than an arts centre worth discovering in its own right.

Our approach brought audience understanding and Barnsley Civic’s ambitions together, establishing its story before shaping its identity. Reaching younger and less affluent communities meant making the experience feel relevant, welcoming and worth their time.

We positioned The Civic as a place where there’s always something to experience. Three themes made that promise tangible: a broad programme encouraging discovery; an intimate venue bringing people closer; and thoughtful curation giving them confidence to try something new. From performances and exhibitions to food and conversation, there were more reasons to come in and stay.

At its heart was culture and creativity by, for and of the people. “For those that have a story to tell. And those who want to listen.” welcomed creators, participants and audiences alike.

Bold typography, vibrant colour and distinctive modular design brought that energy to posters, programmes and social content. A flexible identity and warm, conversational voice united around what made the experience of the Civic special: being there together.

The brand and identity expressed Barnsley Civic’s ambition to be a creative hub that grows with its community, shaped by everyone who steps through the doors. Where people and culture are brought together. And brought to life.