Ripples of arty joy

Since 2022, HOME has been working with communities, using creativity to build supportive spaces where people can connect and thrive through art. Led by artists and co-created with residents, Home from HOME is a space for people to tell their own stories in new creative ways. Through poetry, craftivism, filmmaking, storytelling, ceramics and sound, these groups present works that say something about them.

One participant from Home from HOME Women’s group in Gorton said:

“The group is more than just art. It’s a community. We look out for each other, especially on bad mental health days. It’s like a little family. My mum has some of my art up in the house, and she’s proud of me. That feels good, especially after struggling so much these past few years.“

Ripples of arty joy is curated by community artist Phoebe Foxtrot who leads Home from HOME Women’s group in Gorton. Phoebe Foxtrot says:

“In community settings, we have a responsibility to make proper art. Through art we can celebrate ourselves, explore our identity, spend time on self-care. Community art is proper art; we’re not messing around here. I wonder all the time about people as they go about their daily lives, not having discovered their inner artist yet. We have a duty to get the tools in their hands so they can find out.”

Home from HOME’ strives to authentically co-create work with communities across Manchester, creatively celebrating local people, places, and culture. This long-term creative engagement programme delivers women’s groups and youth groups in Hulme, Moss Side, Gorton, and activity in North Manchester and Wythenshawe and aims to amplify unheard voices, promote health and wellbeing, reduce isolation, and increase access to the arts.  

For more information about HOME’s work in communities visit Communities | HOME