Our wonderful local artists have been working with Future Shed to co-ordinate an art materials give and take project. Reusing what we already have is really important for our planet – and donating makes us feel good! We know that creativity is linked to wellbeing including the benefits of being absorbed in a project, activating different parts of our brains, reducing stress and anxiety and forging new connections if you are in a creative group.
We collected a HUGE amount of art materials for children and adults and we are very grateful to our local community for their donations. We heard some lovely stories, including from people no longer able to make art and from parents and grandparents whose children are growing up, all of whom wanted others to enjoy their materials.
We ran a workshop and children’s art materials giveaway at Frome Children’s Festival on 21st July. We had 60 participants in one hour and were busy all day! There were so many wonderful freestyle creations and the kids loved having unstructured play. Parents and children were surprised and grateful to be able to take art materials away.
The event was such a run-away success that we are now planning how to distribute the remaining children’s materials and all the materials for adults. We would especially like to reach adults who might struggle to afford materials or who are unable to access creative opportunities in the community – and organisations who make creativity accessible. Contact becky@edventurefrome.org if you know anyone who could benefit!