Young people ‘get started’ with digital arts

City Arts has been helping young people in Hucknall ‘Get Started’ with digital arts.

In April, eight young people joined artist Bec Smith, from Urban Projections, for course giving them the tools to start producing their own digital art. Over five days, Bec lead the group through a range of the different techniques she uses in the production of her stunning animated digital projections, including drawing, VJing and the digital manipulation of images.

We took the group to QUAD, Derby’s independent cinema and arts centre, on a search for inspiration. QUAD’s Digital Participation Curator, John Whall, showed us some of the brilliant work being exhibited as part of the FORMAT International Photography Festival. Afterwards the group had the chance gave get on a computer, play around with and manipulate images from the exhibition.

“I’ve met new people and my confidence has grown.”

“Meeting with professional artists like Rebecca Smith has inspired to do work outside of my comfort zone.”
Course Participants

The young people produced a series of incredible digital animations, which were showcased at Hucknall’s volunteer run Byron Cinema on Friday 17^th April. Friends and family were in the audience; parents were delighted that their children had being given the opportunity to attend the course.

“My Daughter’s confidence has improved so much during this week, Thank you to everyone involved.”
Participant’s Mother

First Art developed the Get Started course with the Prince Trust, as part of their commitment to inspiring young people from the areas of Ashfield, Bolsover, Mansfield and North East Derbyshire. It is designed to give disadvantaged young people the chance to learn more about the arts, build their confidence, discover new skills, and create and exhibit their work, whilst working towards a Bronze Arts Award.

Get Started courses will run for the duration of the First Art programme. Find out how you can get involved!