Paul, inspired by seeing his brother’s achievements on our Impactful Starts employability programme, joined our Cashback Summer programme in the hope of having fun, making friends and spending time over the summer gaining new skills. Paul initially believed art wasn’t for him. He came to the group not knowing anyone and having little to no experience of using art materials or art practice. The challenge for Paul was getting the time to try out new things for himself and seeing that being creative was something he could do. However, throughout the programme, he not only made new friends but also embraced various art activities, contributing to a group quilt and discovering a passion for creating his own video games.
Despite limited prior experience, Paul excelled in gaining his SQA Practical Abilities qualification, showcasing his commitment to learning and teamwork. Engaging in the John Muir Award, he actively participated in environmental conservation activities, displaying leadership and mentoring skills. Paul’s journey on the programme highlighted personal growth, from overcoming scepticism about art to excelling in diverse projects.
Looking ahead, Paul plans to return to school and has applied for a Digital Marketing apprenticeship. Over the course of the programme Paul worked really well with others and wasn’t afraid of trying out new things, and can see that doing so results in identifying new interests outside of school.
Paul said; “The programme has really helped me mentally and helped take my mind off of other things going on. I believe Cashback Summer is a great opportunity for young people like myself. It’s really helped me, and I have to thank the staff, and all the people that came in to show us how to do things like First Aid and stop motion animation!”
CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR CHARITY
Every year our Craft Café Govan members aim to create a number of projects where they make things of use for other charitable causes. They wanted to find small charities and organisations where their gifts could feel more personal and be more useful. Emphasising that Christmas is not just a time for consuming and receiving, but giving and showing kindness.
They chose a local based charity to give to; Amma, for babies and mothers. Amma provide care, information, and advocacy for women who face birth and parenthood alone, and offer birth and postnatal companionship, education and support. They often work with refugee and asylum-seeking women, survivors of human trafficking, and other individuals experiencing multiple disadvantages. The members created personal giftboxes for the parent and baby, with a knitted teddy an item of baby clothing, a hand written card, a lavender bag and a handmade soap. Making twenty-five gift boxes for the charity.
After the success of last years gifts to Florence House care home, they decided to do it again. The members made 20 gift parcels, containing a painting, a copy of their Back Court Concerts booklet, a knitted blanket, a lavender bag and a card. The gifts will go to those residents who are more isolated and do not receive many visitors. The contents of the gift parcels were matched to the tastes and interests of the residents.
Last week our Craft Café Govan members launched their Back Court Concert exhibition at The Boardwalk.
The amazing work of 50 Craft Café members was celebrated with a beautiful showcase of their work from the past year. From an Indian ink project to watercolours from the community garden. As well as individual artwork from members past and present.
The main event was the Back Court Concerts project, celebrating the playful performances the members put on in the back courts as kids. Including a miniature tenements set, a crankie shadow puppet machine, and some performances by the members.
Thank you to everyone who came along and helped celebrate our amazing members. The exhibition will be on display till 17th November at The Boardwalk and we highly recommend you pop in to see the wonderful, nostalgic pieces of art!
Location: The Boardwalk, 105 Brunswick St, Glasgow
