Centre Stage

Centre Stage is a community art project that reimagines Wisbech's historic Market Place through contemporary photographic portraits, transforming an unfinished 1887 painting into a vibrant, collaborative installation celebrating the town's diverse residents.

Project Overview

Centre Stage puts the people of Wisbech in the spotlight, celebrating the diversity of the people that call this historic town their home. The project draws inspiration from a remarkable unfinished painting in the Wisbech and Fenland Museum’s collection. This project is a powerful narrative of Wisbech’s living history, bridging past and present by celebrating the community’s rich diversity and ongoing story.

Historical Inspiration

The project is rooted in an unfinished painting by Alfred Balding, depicting Wisbech Market Place during the celebrations for Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee in 1887. This artwork features many of the town’s residents within a still-recognisable market place backdrop, with many locals having paid for the privilege of being featured.

Contemporary Vision

CentreStage aims to capture a contemporary snapshot of Wisbech through photographic portraits representing the diverse communities that make up the town. These portraits will be housed within a unique, theatre set-inspired model that reimagines the market place for the 21st century.

Community Collaboration

The project will be created through a collaborative effort involving the community of Wisbech, lead artists Electric Egg, and a professional set designer.

Exhibition Details

The final interactive installation will be shared and displayed at the Wisbech & Fenland Museum in October 2025, featuring the new portraits alongside the original 1887 painting.

Want to get involved or find out more?

Email us at hello@marketplacearts.org.uk