Churn Project Creative Arts

Art grant helps Churn Project deliver confidence-boosting creative sessions

A generous grant secured by The Arts Society Corinium through its charitable Young Arts programme has enabled Cirencester charity The Churn Project to deliver two creative arts sessions aimed at building confidence in disadvantaged young people and those not in employment or education (NEET).

Three young people and three adults, all with barriers to learning such as anxiety, depression, isolation, or learning difficulties, took part in two sessions with local artist Laurie Plant. The first took place in the summer ‘en plein air’ in the wonderful surroundings of the Abbey Grounds, Cirencester, and the second – an observational drawing session that concentrated on drawing hands – took place recently at The Churn Project’s Cirencester hub in The Waterloo.

Using charcoal and cartridge paper, each of the participants learned a great deal and they all plan to continue drawing. One of the young people is currently working on a graphic design portfolio and two are receiving bursaries for stone carving tuition at New Brewery Arts. The sessions have already opened up new horizons for those taking part. One participant said: “This was so nice to concentrate on something that takes your mind off your own situation”, and another commented on the Drawing Hands session: “I have loved today. Laurie has really helped me to go big in my drawing. I usually make small drawings and am very shy of showing other people my work.”

The Churn Project’s Amanda Griffiths, who helps support young people into employment, volunteering or training, is delighted with the success of the sessions:

“We have been so pleased to be able to offer these art sessions, which have undoubtedly helped to build confidence in those who took part. We are extremely grateful to The Arts Society Corinium for securing this funding for us and for giving those with barriers to work and education the opportunity to find out just what they can achieve with a little support and guidance.” www.churnproject.org.uk

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