Express Yourself with Art Lives: A Free Creative Course for Care Leavers

Barnet care leavers are invited to unlock their creativity with Art Lives, a new eight-week, peer-led project that offers the opportunity to explore various art mediums, express yourself, and develop your artistic skills.

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Whether you’re new to art or already enjoy creating, Live Unlimited’s Art Lives is for you! The programme is led by trustees Jenni and Holly, who both have lived experience of being in care. Jenni previously worked as a Service User Involvement Practitioner at Onwards & Upwards, where she led the Strengths & Resilience group, using arts and crafts to help care leavers explore their experiences.

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"Art is a way for me to express myself and wind down after a busy day. Whether it’s crochet or beadwork, I find myself completely absorbed, and it gives me a sense of calm." - Jenni

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One of the key aims of the project is to create art that will help brighten and personalise the rooms of children in care. Art made by care leavers will be available for purchase by foster carers and care home staff, alongside members of the public, as part of a final exhibition.

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"When you move into a foster home or care placement, it can be overwhelming, especially if your belongings are in bin bags and the room feels cold and empty. Through this project, care leavers can create art that helps make these spaces feel less clinical and homelier." - Jenni

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The programme is free to attend, with all materials provided. It’s a great opportunity to meet other care leavers, build your creative confidence, and share your story through art. At the end of the programme, you’ll have the chance to display your work in a public exhibition. You can either take your artwork home or sell it, with proceeds going toward a fun day out or meal.

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Sessions will run every Saturday from 25th January to 22nd March 2025 (excluding 22nd February)  from 2:00 pm to 3:30 pm at ArtsDepot in North Finchley.

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The programme includes:
• Exploring different art mediums, including painting, sculpture, and more
• Creating a personal final project
• Showcasing your work in a public exhibition
• Refreshments

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Interested?
If you’d like to join Art Lives, complete the referral form here. Places are limited, so sign up soon!

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For more information, contact Anna Graham at anna.graham@liveunlimited.org.uk or call her for a chat on 07907 694 675.