A NEW creative employability programme to support youngsters at the Job Shop has been developed after Coventry City Council was awarded £10,000 from the National Lottery Community Fund.
The free new programme will host weekly art workshops for those aged between 16 and 29 years old, with activities including painting, photography, sculpture, video, drawing and installations.
The new project will be delivered alongside Arty Folks, an arts and mental health charity who offer a safe, relaxed space for people to have fun while working on art activities.
Those taking up the programme will also receive one-to-one creative mentoring, support from industry professionals and the chance to exhibit work.
It will aim to help young people in Coventry to realise their full creative potential.
Youngsters facing barriers including poor mental health, low confidence or isolation are particularly welcome to join.
Coun Dr Kindy Sandhu, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “This funding means that any young person who is thinking of pursuing a career in the creative industry now has the opportunity to go and do this.
“It’s a wonderful programme for like-minded young people to get a taste of the creative sector, sample a range of artistic workshops and be mentored by some truly talented people, already working in the industry.
“Any young person who then decides they’d like to find work in the arts will be fully supported by The Job Shop and Arty Folks.”
The programme will be delivered from Friday, October 14 until Christmas between 10am and midday at Arty Folks studios, and people can join at any point.
Email [email protected] or [email protected] for more information and to sign up.
