‘Stay and Play’ is a two month series of workshops and events for our community, providing participants with the space and tools to experiment, play, feel, rest and exhibit in our gallery space.
Through conversations, our community has raised questions and concerns about making art and working in the art sector. Participants also fed back that they do not feel comfortable going to museums and galleries. We have spent the last few month reflecting, listening, growing and unlearning in order to respond to this. We place care, rest, and community at the heart of programming.
As part of this two-month ‘non-programme programme’, we will be hosting two separate exhibitions from Joseph Chamberlain College’s Media and Art & Design students, respectively; as well as various events and activities throughout the programme including film screenings, workshops, a lending library, children’s activities, toys and games to create an atmosphere of playfulness and inspiration.
We will also be hosting discussions and workshops based on questions and topics that have been raised by our community in conversations with our team such as:
- Tools of Rest
- Anti-Racist Practice in Early Years
- Trauma and Masculinity
- Faith and Art
- Jugni
- & more
Ultimately, this summer will give us the opportunity to invite and make participants feel welcome; it will allow us to explore how we can increase Warmth in our physical space, whilst giving reins to our community.
We look forward to opening our doors and re-welcoming our community into our gallery space this summer. Come and join us at Ort Gallery throughout June and July – more info to be added soon!
This programme is funded by Paul Hamlyn Foundation, Arts Council England & Community Fund. Artwork by Sabba Khan.
