Through a programme of visits and workshops, thousands of children will be introduced to one or two art forms as they get to know and feel more comfortable in their local partner cultural venue which might be an art gallery, a theatre, an historic house or concert hall.
The project launched with teacher training days in July. Work with children will begin in the autumn term and run through to early 2009.
As well as aiming to impact positively on children’s academic attainment, creativity, confidence and self esteem, the project intends to increase the children’s pride in their local area as they get to know what arts opportunities are available to them. Their work will be celebrated in front of a local community audience later in the year before being transferred to London for a national finale.
Donal McCabe, Director of Corporate Communications at Land Securities said:
“Land Securities wants its shopping centres to be a partner of the communities they serve, not just a place that happens to be there. Working with Create-a-Quest we aim to help local school children enjoy themselves while learning about both themselves and the arts.”
This is the fourth year that Land Securities has supported the work of Children & the Arts.