Our Story So Far
Debra Knight is the Co-founder and CEO of Queen’s Award winning and Luton’s longest serving community interest company NINE RED Presents…
21 Years Of Service Dedicated to Quality
At your service
“We believe that each individual in society, irrespective of race, ethnic origin, gender, marital or parental status, sexual orientation, creed, disability, age, religion or political belief has the right to be and to achieve all they want in their lives.”
In 2003 we had a vision and created a philosophy, a way of life. 21 years later, everything we are is dedicated to that vision.
On 22nd of September 2006, NINE RED Presents… (CIC) became incorporated as a Community Interest Company. We are a social enterprise, operating in a business environment for a socially useful purpose.
There have been challenges and difficulties and in so many ways we have felt like a little boat, adrift in a large ocean; but we perservered. We have seen the tiny seeds we planted all those years ago grow and flourish into so many wonderous things.
We began as a small group with two project: “The AVS Project (Abuse Victim Support)” and “Diverse Britain”, responding to the needs of Caribbean women, whilst trying to highlight the positive contributions that Africa and The Caribbean have made to Britain.
In the 1990’s abuse was hard to talk about. In 2012 world events brought attention onto the subject, opening the door for further conversation. In 2024 at “The Big Weekend” in Luton, the Saturday Night headlining act was Rae, and she was singing about it.
So yes, we still feel like a ting boat in a big ocean, and when things get challenging sometimes, we remind ourselves of our journey over the years. Anytime we feel like we are too small to matter, we remember what its like to try to sleep in a room with a mosquito.
NINE RED Presents… (CIC) is that mosquito, not allowing change to sleep and for society to fall into inertia. We are small, but its tiny drops of water that carve out stone.
Happy 21st Birthday NINE RED Presents…(CIC) (QAVS2016)
Why Art Un-Defined!
In 2003, when we started Nine Red we wanted to create art that was reflective of who we are – a unique, dynamic, highly collaborative and responsive organisation, that didn’t want to be defined by labels or put in boxes.
As we grew as an organisation, arts organisations, funders and commercial partners put so much pressure on us to define who we are; build a brand, fit into a box with assigned labels and target a specific audience.
However, the work that we produced crosses so many genres, so many industries; we had built a multi-faceted organisation, that just did not fit. Then there is us personally, “Thou Art Controversial”, by nature we are maverick.
Our art challenges preconceptions and refuses to be defined by other people’s labels. Our art is used to enable our audiences to see a snapshot in to other people’s worlds and to view society from another person’s eyes. To see an individual as a whole and not by whatever labels we ascribed them, so the only definition we could have for ourselves would be Art Undefined.
Art Undefined is not a brand, concept or idea, it is who we are and what we do. It is the essence of our nature and the artwork that we produce; born to transcend labels, we are design refined, no labels assigned, uniquely defined, Art Undefined.
Think Art. Think Therapy, Think NINE RED!
A Queen’s Award-winning community interest company, run by interdisciplinary artists that permanently or temporarily update your spaces with intriguing, thought-provoking and intricate designs.
Think Art! We are innovators in the creative industry known for our artwork, soundwork and prose that captures the essence of any subject or area. To children’s places and open spaces, from commercial premises to shopping centres. We transform empty spaces into breath-taking conversation pieces. Using a combination of materials, genres and mediums; we redefined art. With pop-up art, pop-up performances and pop-up workshops and activities.
Think Therapy! As a community interest company, we use all company profits to provide a holistic package of support for victims of domestic/sexual violence and individuals affected by mild-moderate mental health conditions. We provide Art as Medicine to help individuals to overcome trauma, gain confidence and self-esteem and to help manage anxiety, depression and stress.
As interdisciplinary artists, producing sound with Vision! An explosive blend of Sound, Colour and Movement – The art of storytelling; blending different mediums, encouraging deep listening and profound understanding. Inspired by art forms across the world; we create art that crosses over genres – Theatre Arts; Art Installations & Exhibitions; Spoken Word and Soundworks; Carnival Arts As Therapy; Bespoke Art Projects; Cultural Art Exhibitions & Workshops; Photo Mosaics and Montages; Hand Poured Candles & Waxworks; 3D Design & Printing; Community Art Projects; Visual, Digital and Graphic Art.
Think NINE RED Presents… (CIC). Truly Art Undefined!
Embracing Courage Through Encounters
At NINE RED Presents… (CIC), we believe in the transformative power of art and personal experiences to inspire and uplift our community. Just as our initiatives aim to redefine spaces and encourage self-expression, the story of a young girl’s encounter with a local football legend exemplifies how unexpected moments can ignite a spark of courage and lead to meaningful change. This belief in nurturing creativity and resilience fuels our mission to support individuals, particularly those overcoming challenges, and to foster a vibrant, inclusive community. Join us as we celebrate the art of storytelling and the beauty of personal journeys that shape who we are.
I want to share a special memory that has stayed with me and continues to inspire my journey. Luton is often viewed as the “underdog,” yet we possess the incredible power to redefine ourselves and rise above expectations. Sometimes, this transformation happens in the most unexpected moments. When I was around 6 or 7 years old, I attended a family party in Luton where a famous local footballer was present, thanks to a family connection. My older cousins were filled with excitement, eager to get his autograph and encouraging us younger ones to join in. At first, I felt hesitant and unsure, but when one cousin urged me to ask, I felt a spark of courage emerge within me.
With my heart racing, I approached this iconic figure, holding out a card and asking for his signature. He greeted me with a warm smile, his eyes sparkling with kindness, and gently asked for my name. “Debra,” I said, feeling a rush of pride as he signed the card, inscribing “To Debra” alongside his name. I couldn’t wait to share my treasure with my cousins, believing they would be thrilled. However, when I presented it to them, one said, “I don’t want this.” Confused, I wondered why, and she replied, “It has your name on it.” They dashed off, leaving me feeling a little lost. But then, the gentleman who had just signed my card came over. Kneeling down to my level, he looked me in the eyes and said, “It has your name on it because you bravely came to ask me. They could have asked too, always remember to walk your own path.”
Those words struck a chord in my heart. They became a guiding light for me as I grew. I took that advice to heart, leading me to co-create NINE RED Presents… (CIC), Luton’s longest-serving and Queen’s Award-winning Community Interest Company, committed to enhancing the lives of those in our community. And that incredible local footballer who provided me not only with his autograph but also with a timeless lesson in self-belief? His name was Ricky Hill. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most profound moments come from unexpected encounters that inspire us to embrace our own journey and forge our unique paths forward.
Think Art.
Our art form is a compilation of art forms from around the world and crosses over genres – Music, Dance, Drama, Spoken Word, Poetry, Visual, Digital and Graphic Art.
By definition, art undefined is art undefined; as such we can feel free to display our art form and performance style without the confines of having to fit into some tight labels, that didn’t really allow us to express ourselves.
At our Core, we are interdisciplinary artists delivering an art-form that fuses Spoken Word, Music, & Visual Arts to produce an explosion of sound, colour and movement.
At our best, we are Life in Motion, creating drama and dance, twisting through time, entwining with sound, colour and movement to weave a tapestry of combined arts.
Think Therapy,
Our projects support and enhance the lives of individuals experiencing any of the following:-
• Social or material disadvantage;
• Domestic/sexual violence and historic abuse;
• Mental health issues
• Cultural deprivation.
This is achieved this by opening up our existing projects that provide skill attainment, education, artistic pursuits and counselling, to clients from the about categories. This has enabled clients to work with their case worker to create a care plan.
Think NINE RED!
NINE RED Presesnts… (CIC) responds to the needs of our local community and was created to catch individuals, before they fall. Each of these projects arose from a direct need.
Scientific studies tell us that art heals by changing a person’s physiology and attitude. The body’s physiology changes from one of stress to one of deep relaxation, from one of fear to one of creativity and inspiration. Art and music put a person in a different brain wave pattern, art and music affect a person’s autonomic nervous system, their hormonal balance and their brain neurotransmitters.
Art and music affect every cell in the body instantly to create a healing physiology that changes the immune system and blood flow to all the organs. Art and Music also immediately change a person’s perceptions of their world. They change attitude, emotional state, and pain perception. They create hope and positivity and they help people cope with difficulties. They transform a person’s outlook and way of being in the world.
From Snapshot to Soul Craft
My journey as a poet began with a single photograph—an unexpected moment that ignited a fire within me and marked the dawn of a brand new start. When I found myself agreeing to be photographed standing alongside Kelvin Hopkins MP during his campaign trail, I had no idea that this decision would alter the course of my life. Through Kelvin, I met Andrew Grays, the Chief Executive of Luton Culture, and this introduction not only fueled my passion for the arts but also revealed a tapestry of opportunities waiting to be woven.
Understanding that life would not be handed to me on a plate, I recognized that these moments were like gaps I could climb through to seize my destiny. Embracing this chance, I dove headfirst into the world of poetry, eager to transform inspiration into action. I collaborated with diverse groups and organisations, each project and program serving as a stepping stone leading me to my current role as the Poetry Champion for Bedfordshire.
This journey has been a testament to the profound power of words to connect, inspire, and transform lives. I’ve learned that with each line crafted and every poem shared, I could uplift others while simultaneously elevating my own path. I’m excited to continue this journey of sharing the beauty of poetry, harnessing every opportunity along the way to shape not just my destiny but the destinies of those who encounter my work.
Top Photo taken in 1997: I was a student undertaking my LLB (Hons)
Bottom Photo taken in 2013: Fundraising Valentines Dinner – NRP is 10 Years old.
Art In Athletics
Join us for our “Pilgrims’ Poetry Walking Workshops,” where the beauty of Bedfordshire serves as a backdrop for creative expression. These workshops invite participants to explore the vibrant intersection of nature and poetry, nurturing not only artistic skills but also personal wellbeing.
Integral to our “Arts in Athletics” program, our “Squash It!” classes blend the dynamic elements of sports and the transformative power of art. In collaboration with Bedfordshire Police and WoCiP, this initiative is designed to uplift the mental health of young people of color. Under the guidance of Lee Collins and the support of Luton & Dunstable Squash Club, “Squash It!” aims to enhance self-esteem, decrease feelings of isolation, and foster a sense of community. By intertwining the discipline of squash with artistic expression, participants cultivate vital life skills, resilience, and a strong community bond.
Additionally, Parkfest—a celebration of annual community arts, culture, and wellbeing—integrates a diverse array of sports including cricket, football, and Gaelic football, all centered around Leagrave Park. This holistic approach to athletics promotes not just physical fitness, but also a communal atmosphere where art and sport unite for collective flourishing. Join us as we harness the power of creativity to strengthen our community and improve individual wellbeing through the arts in athletics.
Leading by Example
We encourage our service users to step out into the light and expand their boundaries by participating in carnival and theatre performances.
To lead by example Debra auditioned and was cast a role in the London 2012 Paralympic Closing Ceremony.
Pictured here in the “Truck Invasion” entering the stadium behind the “Winter” truck.
How Art Heals
Art has a profound ability to heal and transform lives, as illustrated in the journeys of artists, writers and creatives who discovered their passion through unexpected opportunities. Engaging with the arts fosters connections and uplifts individuals, demonstrating the power of words to inspire and create change. Initiatives like the “Pilgrims’ Poetry Walking Workshops” and “Squash It!” program highlight how blending artistic expression with physical activity nurtures personal wellbeing and community bonds. By integrating creativity into athletic programs, participants not only develop vital life skills and resilience but also combat feelings of isolation and enhance their mental health. Overall, art serves as a powerful tool for healing, growth, and communal flourishing.
A Party With A Purpose.
Parkfest! 4 A.V.S Designed and ran by survivors of sexual and domestic violence. This community family fun day celebrated local talent and local community. Part of the AVS Project (Abuse Victim Support).
Part Funded by Bedfordshire & Luton Community Foundation, The Arts Council England , Awards For All England and The National Lottery.
Festival Performers
Call out to Performers, Musicians, Entertainers, Dancers, Singers and more. We want a diverse array of cultures and art forms. Set your creativity free! Free your art and showcase yourself.
Festival Stalls/Traders
Call out to Stallholder, Caterers and Traders . Sell your products, or promote your social enterprise, charity or business. Be seen. Build brand recognition in the local community.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Align your business with the grassroots community’s established values of collectiveness, collaboration, co-operation, connectivity, creativity, diversity and celebration.
DAMSEL – Carnival Band 2011 – Present.
Part of the AVS Project (Abuse Victim Support), the Darkness Makes Sense In The Light Carnival band uses carnivals, festivals and events, to bring colourful and playful costumes, and bringing public attention to their cause
Part Funded by Bedfordshire & Luton Community Foundation, The Arts Council England and Awards For All England.
Team SP – Digital Art Project 2016
Working with residents and staff to capture years of Team SP’s volunteering and celebrating community projects and events. This project involved the creation of two large photo mosaics to be displayed in the Signposts Head Office.
The project was commissioned by
Signpost Starting Over.
Lewsey Farm CC – 40th Anniversary Digital Art Project with NCS – 2012
Commissioned by Lewsey Farm Community Centre to celebrate its 40 year anniversary.
Working with NCS (National Citizenship Service) to create a documentary, celebrating the 40 years.
The film highlights and celebrates the history of the community centre, its’ staff and activities.
Lea Manor High School Digital Art Project -2012
Part of Lea Manor High Schools enrichment week. Working with students to create a 1.5m x 2m photo mosaic to be displayed in the Exclusion Zone.
The mosaic contains thousands of pictures taken by students of their school.
This project was commissioned by Steve Merriman, Music Teacher – Lea Manor High School
Luton International Carnival – 40th Anniversary Exhibition – 2016
Celebrating 40 years of Luton International Carnival 1976 – 2016 and exploring Lutons’ manufacturing and hat industry. Hosted by the Stockwood Discovery Centre at 1-30th June 2016.
Part Funded by Bedfordshire & Luton Community Foundation.
Love Luton 2012 – The other side of the ring exhibition & Performance – 2012
The “Other Side of the Ring” exhibition and poetry performance is digital art & spoken word that celebrates art, culture, diversity and sport. Highlighting the social and political aspects of the Olympics. Emphasising how sports, nations, cultures &
individuals have been shaped by or had an influence on political, social and cultural transformations.
16 Days of Action – Our House – Art Installation – 2015 & 2019
A 3D Advent Calendar House, with 25 windows, containing artwork and images created by survives of Domestic and Sexual Violence and set on a printed display matt depicting a garden.
House has windows on both sides, 13 windows on the front and 12 windows on the back. Toured Bedfordshire during 16 Days of Action between 2015 & 2019
Commissioned by Bedfordshire Domestic Abuse Partnership
Lea Manor HS Enrichment Day 2012
We turned Eight classrooms into different continents, with exhibitions, performances, workshops and cultural foods. (Africa and the Middle East, The Caribbean and South America, The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Island and the Commonwealth, The United States of America, Western & Eastern Europe, The Indian subcontinent, The Far East and the Asian Continent, London 2012 (The Queen’s Jubilee and the Olympics), Cultural Art Room.
Luton Celebrates – St George’s Sqaure 2017
Designed to bring people together to celebration Luton. Luton Celebrates… is an art installation, documentary and performance that highlight Luton’s place in the history of industry, manufacturing and the arts; starting from the small hamlet on the River Lea in the 6th Century to today and the plan to become a City of Culture.
Part Funded by Bedfordshire & Luton Community Foundation, “Big Lottery Celebrates Fund”
Lealands HIgh School -BHM 2013
5x 40-45 minute Seminar workshop for 11-16 year olds, including exhibition, slideshow, workshop and seminar, exploring:
Black British History from 2AD and pre-history (Ancient Africa), highlighting the contributions made to modern Britain including;
Scientist, Inventors, Pioneers and Innovators. Honouring the great tradition, using seminar slides and exhibition to produce a story, poem or spoken word piece honouring Black British History.