Whether it's stewarding at a festival, writing for a magazine, or producing works of art, volunteering for creative projects is bound to get those juices flowing.

All | Carl | Catherine | Rhiannon | Mei | Gaby | Enlight Youth Group | Centrepoint

Thursday Apr 01, 2010

A special Saturday

On Saturday my friend and I went to the youth centre for a special photographic exhibition. It was one of those days when it rains suddenly for ten minutes, then the sun comes out so everything is sparkling. The estate looked great in this light, and with the sound of the reggae music pounding from the hall, I felt really relaxed and positive.

Inside, so much was going on. About four musicians were jamming in the main room, with art going on in another and T-shirt printing at the back. There were loads of kids eating biscuits and getting involved. We found Sheila and after a quick chat, went into the room where a local art therapy project, Hands Inc, were displaying some pictures done by young people.

The pictures were the result of a previous workshop where young people had been asked to think of words to describe their lives, and choose colours that represented certain emotions. The results were very moving and some really accomplished. I've included a few of the best ones below. They reminded me that although this morning was so full of light, music and everyone having a good time, it's not always like that. The amount of drawings relating to knives and drugs was so sad - not what you'd want to find if you asked a young person to draw what was their mind.

My friend and I sat down with two young boys who were drawing and we started attacking the paper with coloured pencils and pastels. Their pictures were much better, and I don't think they were especially impressed with our artistic skills! So we went next door to listen to the music and look at the photos.

Despite the loud volume (again!) we got talking to Katie who works for Hackney Council Voluntary Service, and who was involved in organising the day. She explained that they are looking for people to write for their magazine, Spark, and asked if I could help. I'd really like to do this, as it's a great way to get out and about and see what people are doing. Katie also took us to see the screen printing. There was a whole bunch of children carefully drawing pictures which would be converted on to a T-shirt by an overalled lady in the corner. We wanted to have a go, but time was running out and we had to get going.

I really enjoyed myself and I'm glad I got to see the centre so full of people. It's easier to imagine running a session now I've seen how the space can be used. I've got in touch with the other volunteer to try and set up a meeting about what creative sessions we can do, but it's going to have to wait until after Easter now. Still - small steps!

Posted by GabyJ ( 12:00 AM )
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