‘I AM – The Exhibition’

I Am – The Exhibition
Hebden Bridge Town Hall
7th – 24th August 2017

In early July ‘17, as part of our #creativecommunities initiative, Sharon, Natalie and Amy-Rose from verd de gris spent an extraordinary two days at Whitestone Arts near Haworth in the South Pennines. We brought together 24 Calderdale women from very different social, economic and cultural backgrounds to share something of their lives and life experiences through song, writing poetry, and music … encouraging them to dare to DREAM!

“I will take away from the group Love and Belonging. Hearing the whisper in my ear from the group of beautiful women, I will treasure the memories created. I will remember the many smiles that were shared and the singing was just WOW! A truly grateful, an amazing gift.” DEBBIE

It is impossible to underestimate what can happen when you create an environment like this that is so safe and secure: a space that holds no judgement and is led by creative, passionate and compassionate workshop leaders.

As part of the retreat we invited our friend and photographer Kaye Martindale to record this rich experience. The resulting photographs capture something of the love and energy that filled Whitestone for those two Summer days!

“This work is so important: for community cohesion, strengthening bonds and for better understanding. Uniting people from different backgrounds helps to eliminate misunderstandings and promotes peace and love.” SAALIHAH

The project is funded through Big Lottery Fund and is part of the Creative Communities initiative with Square Chapel Centre for the Arts.