Project Art Works (PAW) is a UK based collective of artists and makers. The East Sussex branch is in Hastings. Their artists work with children, adults and young people who are neurodivergent alongside their parents, carers and peers. Artists who go to the studio travel from all over East Sussex. While at the moment the application list is closed, staff are always happy to take enquiries and give more information. The artists give high quality creative workshops allowing the participants the opportunity to experience art as a tool for exploration, communication and self expression. Their practice intersects art and care, underpinned by a radical approach to neurodiversity, its gifts and impact.
They encourage inclusion spanning practical, emotional support, film events, projects and exhibitions. PAW believes that: “Human connections and what it reveals about identity and how we view each other are explored within our work, ethical structures of diligence and care, expecting self determination and privacy whilst working towards greater visibility and understanding of neurodiversity in culture.”
The artists working with the individuals try to help navigate the health and the social care system through training and peer support. Visiting the exhibition it was inspiring to meet with the artists who against the odds showed such interesting talent of self expression.
It hopes that their artists with neurodiversity get more into mainstream so offer to loan original artworks and to curate an exhibition for businesses. They are supported by several entities including the Arts Council, Children in Need and Community Fund. They also have a shop ‘UNTITLED’, it is an inclusive contemporary art gallery presented by Project Art Works. For people involved they can also access the Support Collective which is a network of families and carers offering training, meet ups and informal signposting. Find out more at:Â https://projectartworks.org/support-collective or info@projectartworks.org.
Image Credits: Heidi Foster .