In Your Hands

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‘In Your Hands’ is an initiative by Beatrice Bless of New North Press to pass on traditional craft skills to young people from the local community.

The first of the week-long courses was held during the summer of 2016 where participants learned about ceramics, textiles and letterpress printmaking. Over the summer 96 young people were able to engage with the process of making by experimenting with the nature of materials in the setting of professional artists’ studios. A field trip to Phytology Nature Reserve also gave the opportunity to look for evidence of the materials they were working with in their natural environment.

The teaching of each craft was delivered by experienced artist educators, who demonstrated techniques and skills and helped the young people develop their own ideas. The outcomes of the week were celebrated together with parents and carers at a final exhibition.

The project has been generously supported using public funding by Arts Council England and London Borough of Hackney during the Summer Holidays and Autumn Half-term 2016 at Standpoint Studios.