Introduction to the Program
A community arts center and an organization to combat inequalities in education were selected for a national cultural program carried out by the British Museum. Metal Peterborough, an art center, and The Kite Trust, which supports the well-being of LGBTQ+ young people in Cambridgeshire, will take part in the "Where we are" program. The program aimed to strengthen people between the ages of 16 and 24 by creating art and cultural projects in their communities.
About the Participants
Ruth Campbell-Ekins, the director of Metal Peterborough, said: "This is a brilliant initiative that we hope will offer young people opportunities for creative experience and skills in the city." Metal Peterborough works in communities and supported over 11,000 artists. They bring together artists and communities to inspire positive changes through events and exhibitions.
The Program’s Goals
In the past four years, the five-year program has worked with more than 120 young people in 10 cities in Great Britain. Young people who join the initiative decide what kind of art and cultural projects they want to pursue and produce. The project aims to remove some of the obstacles to commitment with which young people are faced with the cultural sector and create a sense of community for them.
The Kite Trust’s Role
The Kite Trust helps to build integrative communities and combat inequalities through advice, training, and education for all sectors. PIP Gardner, the managing director of Kite Trust, said: "Creativity is of central importance for our work with young people, and this project will offer the opportunity to express themselves the most." The Kite Trust supports the well-being and creativity of LGBTQ+ young people through self-help groups.
Expectations and Future Plans
Hanouf al-Alawi, the National Outreach Manager of the British Museum, said: "It was so inspiring to hear each of these partners for young people in their communities, and I am confident that their projects will have a permanent effect." Ms. Campbell-Ekins added: "We look forward to working with young people in Peterborough to determine what is important for them and create a new art project together." The program is supported by the Paul Hamlyn Foundation, which enables young people to take the lead in creating art and cultural projects that matter to them.
