The Studio
We are setting up an art studio come and join us!
A series of FREE creative workshops to build social confidence, wellbeing and creative skills.
The programme will give you the opportunity to test out new processes and learn new creative skills in a non-judgmental environment. We will support you to find your own creative interests and gently help you to develop a personal project that you will have an opportunity to showcase (if you want to). We are here to meet you and your needs where you are at right now.
No art experience needed.
We have made a few changes.
Thursday morning sessions (previsouly called Young Persons Programme) are now open to all ages, we will prioritise 16-24 year olds, but are open to all.
Thursday afternoon sessions (previsously called Adult Programme) are now women only, and we have a waiting list.
We are still supporting young people (age 16-24) who are not in education, employment, training. We still support adults not in work due to long term ill health.
Young People (age 16-24)
For: Young people aged 16-24 who are not in education, training or employment (NEET), or are at risk of being so.
Living in North Yorkshire.
We know that it can be hard attending school/college/training. Perhaps you have anxiety around attending, or maybe you find it hard to engage with the formal structure of school, perhaps you have a lot going on outside of learning, or you struggle with the social side of education? Whatever you feel, whatever is happening if your life we are here for you. The Studio will offer you a space to explore your own interests and make time for you, it’s a non-judgmental space and everyone is welcome.
Adults
For: Adults (18+) who are not currently in work, or seeking immediate work, who may have long term health conditions, including mental ill health.
Living in North Yorkshire.
We know that being in work can be a challenge, and finding employment might not be right for you at this moment in time. We are seeking to support people who have not been in work for a while due to long term health (physical or mental). We are here to provide a space for you to explore new creative processes and gently meet other people in a low-pressure environment. Our aim is to support your wider wellbeing and offer the opportunity to explore your creativity alongside others.
Dates
Adult (18-65) & Young Persons (16-24) Programme
(open to all genders)
Thursdays 10.30-12.00
Women Focused Programme
Thursdays 13.00-14.30
Dates
November; 20th & 27th
December; 4th, 11th, 18th
January; 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th
February; 5th, 12th, 26th
March; 5th, 12th, 19th
We may add an occasional additional date for special events such as showcases. These will be optional.
Location
Holding Space located inside:
Creative Harrogate
2 Victoria Ave,
Harrogate HG1 1EL
(The same street as Harrogate Library)
How to get here
Sign Up
The programme is FREE.
Links open in a new window.
Our Women Focused Thursday afternoon sessions now have a short waiting list.
Meet the Artists
The studio is run by Amelia Hawk and Thahmina Begum. Amelia specialises in supporting people’s mental health through creative processes and is a practicing artist. Thahmina is an artist and Art Therapist with experience working in education and care settings.
Find out more about them on the people page.
FAQs
Can I refer someone?
Yes if you are a caregiver or work with/teach/support someone you feel would benefit from the programme, you can refer them, providing you have their consent.
Is the building accessible?
We are on the 1st Floor of 2 Victoria Avenue, Harrogate. There is a lift in the building, and the front door to the building is at ground level without steps.
I attend school/college at that time how can I come?
We work with schools/colleges to find ways to allow you to attend. Your place of education will support you with this, and we can be in touch with them. Drop us an email if you want to talk more about this.
Do I have to come to all sessions?
We realise you may have other commitments. If you would like to come but may struggle to attend all the sessions you can get in touch. Ideally we think attending a minimum of 8 sessions would allow you to get the most out of the programme.
Do under 18’s need a responsible adult present?
Although this isn’t essential, as both artists hold Enhance DBS certificates. We do encourage under 18’s to have a responsible adult present where possible. This might be one person supporting a group of 4 for example. If we have a lot of supportive adults present we may make a break out area next to the main workshop space.
I have a support worker, can they come?
Yes. Please let us know if you will be coming with a support worker / carer / supportive person so we can make sure we have enough chairs.
I have complex needs can you support me?
We hope so, why not drop us an email and we can talk through how we can support you. Email art@holdingspace.art
I am non-binary can I come to the women's session?
If you identify as a woman we welcome you into our womens sessions. This includes trans-women and female identifying non-binary persons.
I still have questions!
Okay send us an email and we will get back to you, art@holdingspace.art
This programme is funded through the Trailblazer Community Grants programme funded by the UK Government.
