Arts Outreach Programme 2025
R-Space is delighted to deliver an arts outreach programme funded by the Halifax Foundation, and in collaboration with five groups across communities in Lisburn. Participants with different abilities and backgrounds took part in a series of workshops, enjoyed getting creative and produced their own art. Their works will be presented in an exhibition open to all in May-June.
Our organisation strives to promote participation in the arts and support communities. We were able to reach those most in need working with Action Mental Health, Lisburn Downtown Centre, Resurgam Development Trust, Stepping Stones Youth Service, and Pink Elephant Cards. We brought together our resources and expertise to support the groups through arts activities.
Facilitator Robert Peters encouraged the groups to learn new artistic skills, and explore ideas important to them. They were thus able to create a variety of pieces - from paintings, to prints and textile pieces, that reflected their own interests and identity. Participants commented that the project not only helped them with gaining creative skills, but also contributed to their personal enrichment and wellbeing.
Participants’ works and achievements will be showcased and celebrated in an exhibition at the R-Space Gallery running between 28 May - 7 June, opening on Wed 28 May between 12.30-2pm. Everyone is welcome to attend and get inspired.
R-Space is very grateful to the Halifax Foundation for their support to our outreach programme and to all the groups.
More about the facilitator and the groups
Robert Peters has over 30-year experience of working in the visual arts sector as an exhibiting artist, curator, arts facility manager and educator. He uses traditional and innovative techniques to support creativity, wellbeing, education, and community development. https://www.artscreative.me
Action Mental Health actively promotes the mental health and well-being of people in NI - children, young people, adults and families; those in work or unemployed; those affected by debilitating illnesses and people living with eating disorders. https://www.amh.org.uk
Lisburn Downtown Centre offers support to people struggling with a mental health problem, a mild learning difficulty, loneliness, and isolation. https://downtowncentre.org
The Resurgam Development Trust is a community owned and led organisation that aims to bring about long-term health, social, economic, and environmental change with a focus on reducing inequalities in the City of Lisburn. https://resurgamtrust.co.uk
Stepping Stones Youth Service supports young people with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, a learning difficulty or a learning disability, or mental health issues to gain new skills, qualifications and employment. https://www.steppingstonesni.com/
Pink Elephant is a social enterprise selling wedding stationery. Its profits support people with learning disabilities to gain meaningful training and employment. https://www.facebook.com/PinkElephantWeddingStationery