The Art Room will be a transformational space which enables all of our diverse communities to learn, grow, heal and start their creative journeys. In the heart of the city centre i will create a centre for arts and wellbeing that focuses on visual arts and art education. With your help I will: - Create a inter-changable art lounge which will include an art library and study area, a pre-school safe space for creative play and a multi functional workshop space for art classes serving all of the Sunderland community. This art lounge will be available to local schools, community groups, arts and culture organisations, youth groups, pre-school groups, faith groups and basically any group that wishes to explore the visual arts, learn a new skill or simply relax and de-stress. It really will be a case of 'ART FOR ALL'! In order to achieve my dream I need help with specialist equipment and materials that will make access to quality art education available for all users.

What we'll deliver:

• Fully furnished and accessible art lounge suitable for a diverse range of participants.
• Easily cleaned, creative play equipment and safety mats.
• Height adjustable furniture to make the space fully inclusive.
• Easily cleaned creative play equipment for pre-school children.
• Designated spaces/equipment for children and adults with additional needs - particularly sensory needs.

Why it's a great idea:

This project will benefit many areas of the North East and will be easily accessible in the city centre with good transport links. This project will support the local community to access high quality, professional art education in a safe, secure and welcoming environment. New groups will be established in order to boost mental health and wellbeing, particularly in helping people who may have been isolated or shielding, or young mums and dads wanting a chance to socialise their babies. Home schoolers can access art classes in an art studio environment, the project can support dads and kids days, grandparents and carers classes and quieter autism / sensory sessions in a smaller more manageable group. Local art clubs, artists and schools can access the art library to research art works and exhibitions and use the equipment to photograph / research new areas of interest. This will be a space that will be accessed by all North East residents from age 2 to add 100+ !!

Steps to get it done:

• Launching and opening the creative space.
• Launching the volunteer program.
• Completing 2 years of arts development and learning.
• Reviewing progress and impact at the 6 month mark.
• Reviewing progress and impact at the 12 month mark.

This project will support many other local artists, businesses and cultural organisations in that it will provide a space to meet, develop planning, teach, create exhibitions and much more.