The All4One group was set up to create a safe social space for children and young people between the ages of 13 and 21 who are seeking asylum or have been trafficked, and are living on their own in Manchester. The group meets monthly for fun activities, trips and events. The young people make friends, have fun, build confidence and get to know Manchester. Over 25 young people attend these monthly meetings and create new memories together!
This month, we had the privilege of visiting the Manchester Art Gallery and working with local artist Harriet Hall. We saw paintings, sculptures and photographs to gather ideas for our own artwork. Harriet explained the importance of looking at things from many different perspectives and connecting to the world. We made collages that represent us. Everybody created something different and shared something important about themselves. We had Manchester United fans, local places such as the Central Library as well as the world at large. Some of us like layers and created excitingly messy tags, while other creations were very geometric and organized. At the end of the workshop, we used smart phones to take interesting photos of the world around us.
Some of the artwork and photographs will be displayed in Manchester at various locations during Refugee Week which starts 19th of June. Be sure to check it out!