Vicky ParryMagnetic Arts, a York based not-for-profit arts organisation, is embarking on the next stage of its journey to help unemployed people suffering from mental illness ready for work.
For some the twenty-week course was the first qualification they had ever gained with some students even selling their own artwork subsequently and one even had a solo exhibition.
Social Enterprise ‘Creating Space For You’ worked in partnership with Magnetic Arts on this project. As a licensed Open College Network centre, they were able to work with Magnetic Arts to offer the nationally recognised qualifications.
‘It was a great opportunity for our two social enterprises to work together and so satisfying to see what these learners have achieved’ said Charlie Mitchell, Director from CS4U.
The students of all ages reported an increased sense of well-being and confidence, Magnetic Arts are now running The BIG Draw at York Art Gallery for Yorkshire Museums Trust and some of the students are moving on to this six week art project and will then have the opportunity to become YMT official volunteers to work with the public over the October half-term when Magnetic Arts run four days of BIG DRAW activities on the theme of ‘Wonderland’ which links to this years Illuminating York festival.
‘We are so pleased to be able to offer an on-going arts programme which has such positive outcomes for people facing barriers in their lives’ said Vanessa Langford Co-Director of Magnetic Arts
