Coalisland arts project helping youths paint a brighter future

A GROUNDBREAKING initiative in Coalisland is transforming the mental health and wellbeing of local teenagers through the power of creative arts.

The Artistic Minds project, run by Beam Creative Network and funded by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland through National Lottery support, is giving young people aged 12 to 16 the chance to express their emotions, build confidence, and develop vital social skills.

Through workshops led by professional artists, the project is offering a lifeline to vulnerable youths, fostering creativity while promoting positive mental health in a fun and supportive environment.

Once a week, the group of young people come together at the Ogras Centre in Coalisland to socialise and meet friends. Every meeting includes a half-hour discussion session, followed by 90 minutes of arts activity to express key themes that matter to individuals.

It is one of 18 projects which received investment thanks to the scheme in locations across the North this year.

Grace Girvan, project manager at Beam Creative Network, said, “This project has been invaluable for the young people participating in it. It’s improving their emotional wellbeing, their confidence, their social and communication skills and its given them an opportunity to come out and socialise with their friends and make new friends too.

“The National Lottery funding has been so important for this project – providing an opportunity for us to get out and help a group of people that we wouldn’t normally get to work with.”

The workshops are due to conclude in October, when there will be an exhibition showcasing the artwork they have created for friends and family.

Lorraine Calderwood, development officer for the Young People and Wellbeing Arts Programme at the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, said, “Thanks to funding from the National Lottery and money raised by National Lottery players for Good Causes, we are delighted to have been able to support this fantastic project in Coalisland.”