A new gallery for local artists has been developed following a successful community arts project in Holywell.
Mixed Media, a three month artist-in-residence programme at Holywell Arts and Crafts Mill has seen artwork utilised to benefit the community including primary and secondary school children, older people and youth and community groups.
After staging an exhibition in December to celebrate the work completed for the project, the venue has become a permanent setting for an exhibition gallery that showcases local products.
Local artist Jan Gardiner from Conwy ran the Mixed Media project and has worked with young people from local schools in order to introduce them to the arts and what can be provided.
West Flintshire Community Enterprises (WFCE), a company set up by Communities First, manages the Arts and Craft Mill on behalf of Flintshire County Council. They wanted to realise the full potential of the Arts and Craft Mill by utilising the gallery for art and craft exhibitions, music, drama and other art forms.
Councillor Derek Butler, Cabinet Member for Economic Development said:
“This is a wonderful opportunity for local groups to work alongside a professional artist and develop their creative skills. The exhibition is the culmination of all partners working collaboratively to bring the artistic works produced to the rest of the community and now the space at the Holywell Arts and Crafts Mill will be used permanently to display local artists, which is great for local business.”
Communities First has worked in partnership with many young people, youth and community organisations, colleges and training providers and has proven that involvement in creative activities has a powerful and positive effect on young people who are at risk of dropping out of education and training.
The exciting initiative includes programmes for young people such as:
- Developing performing arts within the local community.
- Setting up and running a local festival.
- Devising theatre and education performances and touring to other local communities
The ‘Artist in Residence’ programme is a joint project with Flintshire County Council Communities First, West Flintshire Community Enterprises, funded by the Arts Council of Wales.
For more information contact Janiene Davies Communities First Learning Lead Officer on 01352 70593.
