Partnership Programme with GEM Arts

[Newcastle upon Tyne / Gateshead] 2008 onwards

Helix Arts will work in partnership with GEM (Gateshead Ethnic Minority) Arts to deliver a high quality participatory arts project for women from BME communities in Newcastle upon Tyne in collaboration with Tyneside Women's Health.

The core aims are to provide participants with the opportunity to:

• develop new skills and interests;
• experience working alongside professional artists;
• improve confidence and self-esteem;
• improve communication and social skills;
• explore issues, address stereotypes and life choices in a creative, dynamic and enjoyable environment.

In addition to these core aims, the programme also aims to:

• create opportunities for positive work with diverse communities;
• create awareness of education and career opportunities in the arts.

Following consultation with the participants from Tyneside Women's Health about what type of arts activity they would like to undertake, workshops in both photography, led by Magali Pettier, and in fashion design, led by Ruth Gowland, took place from April to July 2009. The two strands of work are being brought together through a photo shoot with London fashion photographer Amberly Valentine.