Creative Communities special series - PART 03: WOLVERHAMPTON
This is the third of our blog posts celebrating our Creative Communities strand of work. Alongside the posts we are releasing a new podcast every Wednesday throughout September.
Project name: Sparkle and Light
Group: LGBT Sparkle Social Group
Dates: September - October 2023
Location: Wildside Activity Centre
After a successful application with Creative Communities the LGBT Sparkle Social Group were gifted seed money to run two sessions at Wildside Activity Centre in Wolverhampton. At these workshops participants came together to make glass jar flower lanterns and picture frames from recycled materials.
THE AIM OF THE PROJECT
The aim was to give participants access to creative activities but also to encourage people to come together and to share their experiences to improve mental health and wellbeing. From the feedback we received it was clear that the participants felt supported and liked meeting new people.
One participant shared that they: “Enjoyed meeting others from different backgrounds and abilities.” And that they also: “Loved being at Wildside.”
It was important to the group that everyone was made to feel welcome and so they used some of the seed money to provide food with one person baking cakes for them to share. Running these sessions gave the group the opportunity to increase their confidence in delivering arts and crafts sessions and in working with partners and different venues.
Nelson, CBCs Creative Advisor for Wolverhampton is full of praise for the activity and shares that: “These projects aim to break barriers and encourage participation in creative activities by targeting individuals who do not engage in creative activities. We aim to inspire and empower those who may not typically engage in such endeavours by showcasing diverse artistic expressions and community initiatives. The creative landscape of Wolverhampton is thriving, thanks to initiatives like the Sparkle and Light Social Group.”
He goes on to enthusiastically encourage others to apply for Creative Communities by adding: “Through community engagement and artistic collaboration, these projects enrich lives and foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity. Join us in celebrating creativity and exploring the endless possibilities the arts offer. Let's build a more vibrant and connected community together.”
If you feel inspired by what you have read or heard and have an idea (or seeds of an idea) for a co-created project in your community get in touch with the Creative Adviser in your area.
Dudley - Laura@creativeblackcountry.co.uk
Sandwell - Richard@creativeblackcountry.co.uk
Walsall - Richard@creativeblackcountry.co.uk
Wolverhampton - Nelson@creativeblackcountry.co.uk