The idea
Our MumSpace group is a safe space for local Preston mums to connect, share and learn. We are raising funds for this art/wellbeing project in the tough winter months when many of us struggle. Many people in our area cannot access creative activities due to financial pressures, lack of childcare, limited access and lack of confidence. With the Preston based ArtFull project we will run free, accessible creative sessions for local women of different ages, backgrounds and cultures. Those with babies/little ones can also come along.
It's called 'Colourful Threads' to celebrate our diversity alongside unity as women together and reflects some of the fabric/materials we may be using in our art! We will run some creative taster workshops in November/December 2025 and then from January-February 2026 will co-create a final exhibition piece made up from individual stories/artwork. We will end with a final celebration and plan to tour the exhibition in our local community spaces/buildings.
What we'll deliver
- 10 creative wellbeing workshops
- A final exhibition piece to display locally in Preston
- Final celebration event
Why it's a great idea
Many mums and women in our local community are isolated, lack connections and struggle with their mental health. This art project provides a platform for them to come together, have fun, achieve and create something together across all our diverse cultures, ages and backgrounds.
The mums who currently attend the MumSpace group say it has helped them make new friends, reduced anxiety and helped them to learn/try new things. Many of the group have loved the one-off art sessions we have tried to run (led by a mum) and its given them space to relax, learn and have a break from stresses of life. We want to reach out to more women with quality art sessions so they can also benefit.
We want the final piece/exhibition to empower and celebrate the women involved, highlight the value and importance of wellbeing, share stories and celebrate our community. We hope to challenge the stigma around mental health and foster conversations around the importance of wellbeing in our community.
Steps to get it done
- MumSpace parents to meet with artist to plan/promote project
- Run 4 art/wellbeing taster sessions for women to try different creative arts and make pieces to take home
- Plan the final exhibition process/plan based on feedback
- Run 6 workshops around wellbeing/sharing stories and create a collective exhibition piece
- Host Community Exhibition and Celebration event at St Stephen Parish Centre
- Tour the exhibition in local centres in the community
