Youth Arts Open Fund Project: Final Results!
A Year-Long Journey Through East Lothian's Seasons
Over the past year, children and young people (CYP) from the North Berwick Youth Project have embarked on an artistic journey, exploring the ever-changing beauty of East Lothian's land and seascapes through the seasons. This YouthLink Scotland, Youth Arts Open Funding project has nurtured creativity and fostered a connection with the local environment.
Our adventure began in the crisp days of "Storm Babet"! The Mixed-media workshops captured the essence of East Lothian's autumnal landscape, setting the tone for an inclusive and supportive atmosphere that would characterise the entire project.
As the year progressed, we welcomed the festive season with special workshops that combined the warmth of the holiday spirit with the textures of late autumn. Young artists experimented with Gelli Plate printing, creating vibrant backgrounds that reflected the twinkling lights of East Lothian's coastline during this magical time of year.
The arrival of winter brought new artistic challenges and opportunities. The workshops shifted focus to capture the stark beauty of East Lothian's winter landscape. Participants in Gullane found inspiration in the silver birch trees of the Millenial Wood, while those in North Berwick turned their attention to the muted tones of the winter seascape. These sessions honed observational skills and deepened the connection between the CYP and their surroundings.
As the first signs of spring emerged, our project bloomed with renewed energy. We celebrated the arrival of snowdrops, resilient harbingers of warmer days that dot the East Lothian landscape. This period also saw the creation of heartfelt Mother's Day artwork, allowing participants to express their creativity while honouring their loved ones.
The April workshops embraced the full glory of spring, and the CYP used recycled materials to create stunning collages of daffodils and spring blossoms. This activity not only supported artistic development but also raised awareness about sustainability in art.
The seasonal workshops culminated in a radiant finale celebrating summer's iconic bloom - the sunflower. Using a combination of oil pastels, soft pastels, and pencils, participants created vibrant artworks that captured the essence of these cheerful flowers and the warmth of the season.
It's been a joy to witness the CYP gaining confidence in their artwork throughout this project. They've developed new artistic skills, deepened their appreciation for East Lothian's natural beauty, and formed meaningful connections with their peers. The workshops provided a judgment-free space where creativity flourished, and allowed the CYP to have a moment of mindful creativity.
From the rich hues of autumn to the stark contrasts of winter, from the delicate blossoms of spring to the vibrant warmth of summer, our collective body of work tells a story of both the changing landscape and the artistic journeys of the CYP.
The final group exhibition was held at the Gullane Recreation Hall. We even had some last minute additions from eager participants!
Given the quantity and quality of artwork created, the North Berwick Library have kindly agreed to showcase the exhibition throughout Sept. After which, a few autumnal pieces will be displayed in an upcoming community event at the Shorelark Studio in the Cockenzie Hub.
This project stands as a testament to the power of art in fostering community, self-expression, and a deep connection with our natural surroundings.
I invite you to celebrate the creativity, resilience, and growth that have blossomed throughout this seasonal journey. The below online exhibition is a wonderful reflection of the young artists' bright, creative spirits.
Kat 👩🏼🎨
LINK: ONLINE EXHIBTION & PROJECT REPORT
