National Lottery Community Fund: East Lothian Young Carers

Creative Calm with East Lothian Young Carers: ‘Hope is the Thing With Feathers’

This autumn, Shorelark Arts CIC was delighted to welcome East Lothian Young Carers to the studio for a series of mindful, creative sessions focused on seasonal watercolour and mixed media art. These workshops were part of our 'Hope is the Thing With Feathers' theme, culminating in a special display at our Winter Community Exhibition and Open Studio Day.

The sessions provided a calm, supportive space where children and young people could explore art in a way that helped ease stress and anxiety. Using gentle guidance and a variety of materials—from shimmering inks and autumnal watercolours to expressive collage—participants were encouraged to create freely, at their own pace.

The artwork that emerged from these sessions is inspiring. Full of colour, emotion, and imagination, it reflects the resilience, hope, and unique perspectives of these young carers. The title of the project, inspired by the Emily Dickinson poem, feels especially fitting.

We are so proud of what was created and can’t wait to share it with the wider community at The Hub this winter.

Huge thanks to East Lothian Young Carers for their energy, trust, and creativity—it’s been a joy to work together.