The 2024 Art Journal Project and the new youth initiative Creative Toolbox launched in April with a joint event.
Both programmes ignite creativity and foster wellbeing, catering to different age groups with unique approaches. Participants came together to start their creative wellbeing journeys with an in-person welcome session at The Bridge, Dumfries. Participants were able to connect with the team and meet each other as well as receive their complimentary package of art materials to start their creative exploration.
Looking ahead, both programmes will include group trips, intensive workshops, and access to a free one-on-one counselling session as part of its holistic approach to wellbeing and creative growth.
Art Journal Project
Led by Liz McQueen, OutPost Arts’ Adult Creative Wellbeing Lead, and supported by Peer Mentors, the 2024 Art Journal Project has started the transformative 16-week journey.
Thirty adults have embarked on a series of arts activities aimed at enhancing their creative wellbeing. The project will culminate in a spectacular public exhibition, showcasing the personal journeys of participants through their artistic expressions.
One participant from the previous year shared their experience, remarking, “The Art Journal processes are really getting me thinking positively – I’m waking up most mornings obsessing about it instead of all the stuff I usually stress about.”
Find out more about Art Journal Project
Creative Toolbox
For young people who may be dealing with low self-esteem, confidence issues, or poor mental health, DG Creative Wellbeing has introduced the Creative Toolbox initiative.
This new programme is now underway, boosting creativity, expand horizons, and provide a gateway to further creative opportunities.
Creative Toolbox is all about storytelling through various art forms. Professional artists from Dumfries & Galloway and beyond will lead creative sessions to inspire and empower the participants. The culmination of this journey will be a sharing event to showcase the work of the young participants.
Find out more about Creative Toolbox
“Art Journal Project and Creative Toolbox promote positive mental health and enhances wellbeing through positive distraction, the development of self-care tools, creative learning, and access to social opportunities. The programmes are designed to support people with all levels of creative skills – many of thos etaking part have no previous art experience.”
Lucy Bell, Director of Creative Health & Wellbeing at OutPost Ar
