The Frame - Providing community and a creative outlet through the therapeutic benefits of art
Gleadless Valley, once crowned the ‘jewel of Sheffield’, could now be considered a sink estate due to the high levels of poor health and deprivation set in a backdrop of limited occupational outlet and economic opportunity. All of this is located in a supposed idyllic landscape of rolling hills and dense woodland. ‘The Frame’ is a multifaceted programme which aims to combat the issues Gleadless currently faces. I Discovered through research of the significant lack of creative outlet throughout Gleadless Valley in both adults and children, and the significant benefits of art therapy in traumatised individuals. Working with S1 Artspace from Park Hill in Sheffield, The Frame seeks to provide a safe, fun and creative environment for the residents of Gleadless.
Art Therapy
My ambition is to implement a programme which utilises art therapy as a tool for the restoration and healing of both individuals and communities. I hope to combat the deteriorating community of Gleadless and help build friendships through a space which both cultivates a positive spirit and empowers individuals. Art therapy is a natural extension of this idea and I believe will provide a solution that has never been offered before to the residents of Gleadless Valley.
Graffiti
Graffiti, being such a large problem, gives the opportunity for the embracing of the culture and the promotion of the activity in a more positive light, benefiting many but especially focusing on the teenagers and youth of Gleadless. Providing a specific space for this type of art will help to both foster a more positive attitude towards the act in the community. Mimicking urban landscapes will help to personalise the space and allow the artists to feel at home.
