Future Makers: Waste Plastic Studio
Empowering Creativity,
Redefining Plastic
Future Makers: Plastic Waste Studio is the culmination of years of research & development and extensive creative community building. We are excited to now be in position to deliver this regional first and one of a kind project.
Here’s a look at some of the key milestones in the Future Makers timeline:
2018
Arts Council England provided crucial funding to initiate research, laying the foundation for a visionary creative hub in the East Midlands.
2019
We developed our concept and steadily built a network of stakeholders who shared our passion and commitment.
2020
We reached a significant milestone when we secured a lease on a 9,000 square ft site with Blueprint Regeneration, a property developer committed to community, collaboration, sustainable homes and workspaces.
2021
Our focus shifted to cultivating a creative community. Collaborations with regional artists and cultural producers were at the forefront, with vibrant social events and captivating performances.
2022
2023
We achieved another significant milestone by securing a National Lottery Project Grant through Arts Council England and the Creative Catalyst 2023 Fund from Innovate UK. This funding has enabled us to acquire the latest equipment and develop dynamic projects and programs centred around our Waste Plastic initiative.
Meet Tristan Hessing:
The Visionary Founder Behind Future Makers
“At Future Makers, we envision a future where plastic waste is transformed
into art, innovation, and opportunity”.
Tristan Hessing, a Nottingham-based cultural producer, is the driving force behind Future Makers. Partnering with property developers Blueprint Regeneration, he launched Future Makers as part of the Trent Basin Makers Yard placemaking initiative.
Tristan has a long history in Nottingham, and since graduating from Nottingham Trent University’s Fine Art course in 2004, he’s gone on to create a number of different artistic spaces across the city.
With a background in project management, consultation, custom fabrication, and technical facilities for the creative industries, Tristan brings a wealth of experience to this transformative endeavour. He co-founded One Thoresby Street and Moot all contributing to the vibrant artistic landscape of Nottingham.
Gill Barker:
Marketing Manager at Future Makers:
Meet Gill Barker, our Marketing Manager at Future Makers. With a diverse background spanning over 15 years in the charity sector, Gill is passionate about mission-driven marketing and believes in the power of storytelling to drive positive change.
With a BA (Hons) in International Business from Nottingham Trent University, Gill values creating impactful, long-lasting marketing campaigns. Her experience extends to creative collaborations and sustainable fashion initiatives, including her notable work on the NTU x Emmanuel House project.
Her dedication to sustainability and creative spirit make her a valuable addition to our team. She is deeply passionate about sustainability and brings her expertise to our mission of reshaping the narrative around plastic waste.
Image credit (Top of page) : Tom Richardson & Katharina Fitz