Express Yourself Exhibition in Gedling Civic Centre

Date published: 27 Jun 2013

Posted by: Joe Pick

Express Yourself Clay Birds

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Young people attending City Arts’ Express Yourself programme will be transforming the reception of Gedling Borough Council’s civic centre into an art exhibition filled with flying birds and a bird’s nest.

The display was designed by young people and will be unveiled at a reception at the council civic centre from 5.30pm – 6.30pm on 2 July.  Express Yourself runs sessions for young people using the arts to support them in developing their creativity, confidence and self-esteem.

The young people were inspired by wildlife in Arnot Hill Park and the idea of a bird display came naturally to them. The birds will hang from the balcony area of the civic centre. A bird’s nest sculpture will be placed above the main television screens in the foyer.

Sculpture James Sutton, who delivered the workshops for the young people, said:

“The aim of the project was to increase their confidence, social skills and hopefully end up with something they could be proud of. Whilst we had lots of ideas we decided this design would work well in the space and best represented the park.”

Councillor Darrell Pulk, Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Development said:

“These young people have captured the heart of our local park with this design and I am sure it will look fantastic in our civic centre reception. This exhibition is a great example of how by working with local partners we can get positive results”

The installation marks the start of the arts trail in Arnot Hill Park which will officially launch in October. Over 20 pieces of art work will be displayed throughout the park to celebrate the area.

Express Yourself is a partnership project between Gedling Borough Council, City Arts and Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services.