Using Picaso to Inspire Creativity

Communities First has used Pablo Picasso to inspire creativity among primary school pupils struggling with motivation and confidence.

A community artist worked with 349 volunteer pupils across 11 schools over 12 days, to deliver a full day workshop to each school.

The pupils were asked to explore their own ideas in relation to a particular theme that Picasso had explored during his career; each theme being emotive both culturally, historically but also encouraging self-reflection. The pupils were then asked to create a sculpture or art piece.

On completion of the Inspiring Creativity Project, Communities First looked to celebrate the achievements and creations of the project. An event was held at Parc y Scarlets which produced a gallery where parents, friends, family and school staff members could attend to learn more about the project, see the children’s creations and efforts but also find out about Communities First as an organisation.

Executive board member for regeneration and leisure Cllr Meryl Gravell said: “As hoped, the children were reunited with their pieces ever so confidently. Their parents were positive that the nature of this project was different, it was inspiring, they saw their children inspired and motivated and through the holidays, many had the impulse to explore their creativity further.”

The event saw over 50 families attend. Many of whom were incredibly keen to see an after school provision like the Inspire to Learn project continue at school on a regular basis. Parent engagement would be key for this and this is in fact something Communities First has priority to support and now looks to deliver training to parents to meet this need.