Empowering Youth Through Art and Theatre

Since 2013, I have enjoyed working with pupil referral units, struggling youths and teens, and young carers, focusing on using art as a medium to explore themes of identity, growth, and confidence building. Over the years, one of my most impactful collaborations has been with Theatr Clwyd, The Fostering Network and youth support centres across the UK.

For several years, I would visit groups for short periods where we embarked on a journey to delve into themes of identity through various artistic expressions. This initiative had a profound impact on the participants, significantly enhancing their personal growth and confidence.

Outcomes

Gallery Exhibitions:

Our collaboration culminated in a series of gallery exhibitions at Theatr Clwyd. These exhibitions showcased the artistic journey of the youth, highlighting their exploration of identity through visual art. Artworks consisted of batik wall hangings, marble ink paintings, 3D sculptures, poetry collage and textile art.

Theatrical Productions and 3D Set Pieces:

The project expanded into theatrical productions incorporating voice, rap, song, movement adding dynamic layers to the participants' self-expression. We recorded audio and had members perform live poems, which was moving to witness as they blossomed during their creative process.

I guided the youth in creating three-dimensional set pieces and masks, decorated with their personal stories and artworks. This process was sometimes vulnerable as they shared their experiences through art. Additionally, at Theatr Clwyd's summer school, I mentored children in set and costume design for productions, giving them hands-on experience and boosting their skills and confidence.

Shadow Puppet Workshops:

From 2013 to 2018, I ran shadow puppet workshops across the UK with various youth groups and emotional support centres. These workshops focused on building narratives and storytelling, providing a creative outlet for expressing emotions and experiences. The joy of hiding behind a screen and using voice and shadows to portray stories was truly special for all involved, proving to be beneficial for mental health.

Public Art Model-Making Workshops:

In collaboration with The Fostering Network, I also ran public art model-making workshops for young carers. These workshops explored how to envision artwork in public spaces and transform environments through visual art and storytelling. Participants learned model-making techniques and developed narratives that illustrated the potential impact of their designs on the community. It was a chance to imagine the impossible, to think big, and dream up wild hypothetical worlds. These workshops also provided a supportive environment that promoted mental health and wellbeing, allowing young carers to express themselves creatively and find solace through art.

Impact

My extensive background in community engagement was instrumental in the success of these projects. By providing a safe and supportive environment, I enabled the youth to express themselves freely and confidently. The project not only resulted in visually and theatrically compelling outcomes but also fostered a sense of pride and accomplishment among the participants.

In all my work, I use creativity as a means to support the mental health and well-being of children. My work with Theatr Clwyd, youth support centres, and young carers is a powerful example of how art can be used as a tool for empowerment and personal growth. Through this project, struggling youths and teens were able to explore their identities, build confidence, and showcase their talents in impactful ways.