Our Arts Service, in partnership with Creative Lives, has launched a new initiative designed to empower and upskill local artists in the development of their professional practices. This comprehensive programme will offer vital support in areas critical to artistic growth, including governance, effective facilitation, event management, and mental wellbeing.
This collaboration underscores the shared commitment to nurturing the vibrant arts scene across Lisburn & Castlereagh and to "put art at the heART of our community, making it a welcoming space for everyone." The programme aims to improve the capabilities of artists and arts groups, enabling them to expand their reach and deepen their impact within the community.
The inaugural workshop in this series, titled "Your Best Workshop Yet: A Workshop on Creating Great Workshops for All Lisburn & Castlereagh Arts Groups & Creatives," successfully took place today, Friday, 27 June, at Lisburn’s ISLAND Arts Centre, the creative home of arts in the council area.
This foundational session guided participants through the essential steps of planning, designing, and delivering engaging and effective workshops. From identifying target audiences and crafting compelling content to mastering delivery techniques that inspire and connect, the workshop provided a clear roadmap for both established organisations seeking to sharpen their outreach and new collectives eager to share their talents.
"We believe that investing in our local artists is investing in the heart of our community," stated Councillor Tim Mitchell, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee for Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council. "This partnership with Creative Lives allows us to offer practical, tangible skills that will not only boost individual creative projects but also collectively elevate the standard of arts engagement across Lisburn & Castlereagh. We are thrilled with the enthusiasm shown for our first workshop and look forward to seeing the positive ripple effect it creates."
Beyond skill development, these workshops create a crucial networking platform, offering creatives the chance to connect, exchange ideas, and build a stronger, more collaborative arts ecosystem. Participants also have the invaluable opportunity to provide direct feedback to the Arts Service, helping to shape future support and ensure council can best assist their ongoing projects.
Future workshops in the series will cover a range of informative topics, continuing to provide artists with the tools and knowledge necessary to thrive in their professional journeys.
For full details on all events and to book workshops, please visit www.ISLANDArtsCentre.com