Art that connects, transforms and inspires change

Arts Lab is a participatory visual arts initiative founded by artist Sara Downham-Lotto, integrating visual arts, peacebuilding and community-led social change.

Through workshops, artist residencies, research and partnerships, the initiative brings people together to navigate complex challenges – from climate change and community resilience to inequality, conflict and wellbeing.

We use looking, creative making, dialogue and artistic enquiry to create inclusive spaces where people can connect, communicate, experiment, learn about different perspectives and imagine positive futures together.

Why participatory visual arts?

Participatory visual arts offer creative ways to collectively explore ideas, experiences and possibilities, while opening up new ways of seeing and understanding ourselves, one another and the world around us.

Connecting people and ideas

Based at the Rural Peace Hub in Northumberland, Arts Lab connects artists, educators, researchers, community leaders and changemakers across education, climate, health, justice and peacebuilding — working both locally and internationally.

At a time of environmental crisis, growing division and rapid technological change, creativity, curiosity and human connection matter more than ever.

“Whether making art or making change, meaningful transformation begins by bringing together our heads, hearts, eyes and hands.”

Sara Downham-Lotto