Anyone with a connection to Cleator Moor is invited to take part in two days of drop-in workshops this weekend.
The On Our Doorstep Art Buffet will be held at Crossfield Community Centre, Crossfield Road, from Saturday 14 March from 1pm to 5pm and Sunday 15 March from 12pm to 4pm. The colourful creations which are made by the public will be curated into an exhibition which will go on show at a public venue this Summer.
The aim of the events is to boost wellbeing through art. Research shows that taking part in creative activities can be good for mental health, and bring communities together. A team of professional creatives from Cumbria will lead the workshops which will include everything from masks, mosaics and maps to signposts and smartphone films.
Artists Di McGhee and Sophie Bass are both based in Cleator Moor. They will be joined by Frizington-based Janice Murray, Whitehaven’s Anne Blankson-Hemans, Anja Phoenix who lives on the Solway Coast, Maryport’s Charlotte Stephenson, and Clare Parker who lives near Egremont.
The two events will also include a free buffet for anyone who comes along and gets involved. No previous experience is necessary – just enthusiasm and links to the area.
Di said: "It means so much to have the opportunity to deliver workshops in my local community. I can’t wait to see what the people of Cleator Moor share with us.”
The On Our Doorstep project is being led by Cumberland Council with funding from Sellafield Social Impact Fund.
Councillor Anne Quilter is Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places. She said: “There is so much going on in Cleator Moor thanks to a £22.5 million regeneration programme and these creative events will really shine a spotlight on the area, as well as being good for health and wellbeing.
“We really want to hear from all sections of the community – old and young, residents and those with family ties, and those who choose to work and visit Cleator Moor. Please come along and show us what makes this area special.”
For more information about the arty events visit www.onourdoorstep.org
