The Royal Exchange Theatre have been running monthly craft sessions focusing on creativity and wellbeing, delivered by artist Samantha Edwards as part of a long-term partnership with Jigsaw Homes.
Over the past year the group have managed to transform their community hub in Dukinfield into a vibrant centre bursting with artwork covering every wall. They’ve enjoyed visits to watch shows at the Royal Exchange Theatre, learnt a range of crafting skills and formed friendships over tea, coffee and cakes. They’ve now established themselves as a Community Interest Group with their own constitution, hoping to reduce isolation, provide opportunities for the community and provide well-being activities.
“Fantastic experience. The highlight of my week. Really look forward to it and meeting the new friends I have found there. Every week is different using varied materials and methods and exploring our own expressions of art. Also finding again how creative we all are, and just the time to be us as we are” – Participant Comment
“Love it meeting people and joining in making bird houses, colouring in, making jewelry. Amazing, I needed this to help my anxiety” – Participant Comment
“This thought provoking project goes to the heart of what really matters to people in the country right now. None of the women involved knew each other six months ago which makes this project even more inspirational. As craftivists their methods are viewed as a gentle, compassionate, respectful, slow and quiet, while still having an impact. The process of making encourages people to engage thoughtfully with issues such as poverty, provoking reflection, conversation and then taking action together creating social change” – John McGlynn, Jigsaw Homes
Most recently the group has created a wonderful cookbook filled with their own recipes, you can buy it for their fundraiser from here.
