Wardens & Art

Back in October 2004 the Have Your Say magazine committee invited the Neighbourhood wardens to a meeting to discuss the possibility of working with the Now and Then project. This is a project funded by the Big Lottery; to bring older and younger people together. An idea was developed around looking at the history of Miles Platting and Ancoats, with particular reference to the cotton mill industry.

With the subject decided, an art project was planned, which would be guided by neighbourhood wardens Karen Speak and Michael Barret. Karen has a degree in Fine Art and felt confident to lead the workshops. Stella Fitzpatrick from Have Your Say magazine was also there providing support, help and a light supper for the young people. The sessions were held at the church of the Apostles in Miles Platting and ran for six weeks. We had 25 young people signed up for the sessions and an average of 12 attended all sessions. We did sketching and then a series of paintings.

The work was then shown at an exhibition at Miles Platting Library. The event held in December showcased the projects that the Now and Then project had funded. At the time of going to press the exhibition is currently on display at the library.

After the art project we had great success at engaging with young people and again The Neighbourhood Wardens again with Stella Fitzpatrick from Have Your Say escorted a group of young people to the museum for a day of history.

We also went to Quarry Bank Mill with two groups of over fifties. There we did sketching and enjoyed a guided tour around the mill. Lunch was also provided. Follow up painting sessions for the people who attended these days are also planned, using Quarry Bank Mill as the subject.

The Neighbourhood Wardens are here to help and support you and are committed to working within the community, to build up and encourage a strong interactive community.