Art & EcoCreativity with Teenagers

Matt O’Halloran & Sara Downham-Lotto with Significant Seams – Summer 2021

Arts-based holiday programme for vulnerable teenagers, inspired by nature and collaboration.

‘Exploring making, ecology, and connections between individuals, community and their wellbeing and environment via fun, project-based activities with regional artists.’

Catherine West, Significant Seams

Arts Lab’s Matt O’Halloran and Sara delivered week 2 of this 16-day funded programme led by Significant Seams in mid Devon. Working with a group of 20 teenagers, Matt and Sara facilitated a wide range of activities, sharing their own very different practices as illustrator and abstract artist respectively.

Participants’ feedback

What was the best thing about the week?

Being free to do what we wanted. Learning new things. Working in a group. Potential for anything. Positive interactions with peers. Freedom. Confidence boost. Being with friends. It was great fun.

Why does art matters to you?

Its acceptance of diversity. Relaxing and fun means of expression. Infinite potential. A good way to put a message across/ show your voice.

What did you learn?

Different art techniques /skills. To embrace the unknown and be more experimental. The practice of perseverance. To express myself. Working in a group is fun.

Parents’/ carers’ feedback

Responses to end of week show

What amazing work you have all done. My daughter loved it.

A very impressive range and execution. Liked it a lot.

What great opportunities you’ve given the young kids this week. A lovely idea.