Haring Woods developed Bright Sparks in 2005 as a unique funding model to support artists and designers carry out research and development projects that explore the physical and social aspects of public open space.

Developed as an ideas incubator scheme, Bright Sparks was developed to address the lack of R&D opportunities which allow creative professionals such as artists, public realm designers and landscape architects the freedom to develop new ideas without the constraints of producing an end product.  This new model of commissioning has furthered Haring Woods’ practice of using arts and culture to inspire change and influence current perceptions of our public spaces.

The first phase of Bright Sparks funded eleven diverse projects with international partnerships between 2006 and 2009.  A number of these projects are now being applied to real public realm developments, demonstrating that this new model of commissioning ‘ideas’ can result in informing new developments and instigating debate.  

The concept was first conceived and developed by Haring Woods, as part of Gunpowder Park’s arts and science programme, with core funding from Arts Council England East and London.  Bright Sparks is currently exploring new partnerships to realise a second phase of research and development projects.