Educational and social inclusion
CALL US: 07731402276
Email: fairfutures@outlook.com
Bury, Greater Manchester, UK
Operating across the North West and Yorkshire
Art classes Autumn 2023
Art classes funded by Postcode Neighbourhood Trust
Fair Futures CIC ran art classes, funded by Postcode Neighbourhood Trust, for adults and for children and young people who are refugees and asylum seekers living in Bury. Participants produced artwork each week, exploring a range of techniques, such as drawing, painting, mixed media, sculpting, mono-printing and clay work.
Adults' classes ran in the afternoon and children and young people's classes ran after school from 4.00- 5.30pm.
The rationale behind the art classes was to enable the participants to learn about the history and culture of Bury, whilst enjoying various creative activities and having the opportunity to use English in a safe and informal setting. To this end, the activities were based around the Bury coat of arms, the quadrants of which depict the industries Bury is well known for: cotton, paper and metal.
The classes increased social interaction and supported participants’ well-being. The participants found out more about their new home and were interested to find ways in which they could become part of the community. They also produced some amazing artwork!
The first lessons started with a brief history of Bury and a fun quiz to check understanding. The class then looked at images of some of Bury’s historical buildings and famous residents. They chose their favourite to draw on paper- colour was added using watercolour and Promarker pens.
The groups made contour drawings and then used the outline to create a wire version of the image.
Collage work based on Bury’s landscapes for the adults and collages based on magazine cut outs with added drawing for the children.
Photography and learning to add filters in preparation for mono printing.
Making friendship bracelets with wool.
Monoprinting using layers and textures on a gelli plate.
Transfer printing onto air dried clay.
As Christmas approached, both the adults and children really wanted to make decorations, so the original plans were amended to allow for this.
