ABOUT US

WheelWorks exists to provide artistic and creative opportunities to young people. We seek to increase the artistic, social and cultural inclusion of young people who live in urban and rural communities who experience barriers to participating in the arts.

We support a redefinition of culture and the arts by involving young people in community based arts activity, by providing:

• Arts facilitators for visual arts, music, drama, dance and multi-media.
• Resources, equipment and materials which make projects happen.
• Training for adults working with young people.
• Support, advice and a consultancy service to communities and agencies wishing to develop arts initiatives for young people in their areas.

OUR VALUES

WheelWorks has adopted the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child as the basis for informing our work with young people:

• The creative and artistic needs of young people are central to the programme. Young people are respected as individuals and are encouraged to make choices.
• We are committed to the twin values of excellence and participation, a diversity of artistic work and an emphasis on the artistic process as well as the quality of the product.
• Central to our work is the development of partnership with local communities and the providers of services to young people, creating opportunities for the transference of both practical arts skills and developmental skills that will contribute to social and cultural regeneration.
• We aim to promote appreciation of cultural diversity, awareness of shared cultural heritage and enhancement of mutual respect within and between local communities.

MAKING A CASE FOR YOUTH ARTS

WheelWorks know through their experience that young people's active participation in the arts:

• Increases problem solving ability
• Improves communication skills
• Develops aesthetic judgement
• Nurtures intellectual and imaginative growth
• Increases self-awareness and self-esteem

Youth arts can contribute to more than just personal development - it can provide a medium for young people to explore their own world and be given a voice to express it.