This creative project was based in the Whitfield Community Garden and included a series of creative workshops followed by a celebration event, over October and November 2023.

The project engaged with the mens gardening group who meet there weekly, as well as local school pupils and families. Participants painted a series of posts and smaller art works to decorate the area, bringing colour and art into the garden space.

Drawings from the workshops were also used to create an eye catching welcome sign.

There was much laughter and joking at the sessions, play in many different forms and in-depth conversations around animals, the seasons, plants, science, food and space!

During one session the children became fascinated by digging the holes for the artwork installation! This allowed for learning around earth and soil, the safe use of spades and shovels, and a greater ownership and understanding of how their artworks would be permanently displayed.

Overall, all of those involved expressed their enjoyment of both the creative activities and being able to access and discover the garden. Many local people who didn’t know the garden existed were pleased and keen to return.

“It’s so good to see all the kids in the garden”

“I’ve really enjoyed the project, it’s been fun and the best bit is our new sign. Now people know where we are.”

“The art has really brightened up the garden and brought some colour to the place.”

The project allowed us to create strong connections with the garden which we are excited to build on in the future. We have already held 4 days of play sessions there and are looking forward to offering more events with the garden in the future.

Many thanks to everyone who took part in the project, the men’s group and Alan Fraser as well as funders DVVA.