A unique exhibition charting the work of a programme for ex-forces personell will run in Richmond in April.
There is still time to join the Pop-Up Shed’s Identity exhibition which will track the 18-month Healthy Horizons project fronted by Community First Yorkshire Ex-Forces Support North Yorkshire.
It will highlight the group’s journey from October 2017 when a fully equipped woodworking shed was set up with workshops taught by a whole array of professional artists.
Since then people from the age of 40 upwards have worked with ‘Mouseman’ trained Terry Harrington, illusionist the Magic Marine, actor and author Irene Lofthouse, textile artist Sarah Oatley, printmaker Beverley Haines, leather artisan Kerri Eagle-Moore, animal artist Aileen Harvey, contemporary willow weaver Jo East and green wood carver Lizzie Harrington.
The project, delivered by Richmondshire District Council, has proved very valuable to those taking part and provided some insight into the needs of veterans living in Richmondshire.
Sue White, business and community manager, said: “This has made a real difference to the veterans who have taken part and the exhibition in a professional gallery space gives their work well deserved credence.”
Project manager Sue Dewhurst said:” This has been a fantastic opportunity for often-isolated ex-forces men and women to come and work together and have fun in a safe, non- judgmental environment.
“We have all learned something along the way.
“Our aim has been multi focused, to get people together, to enable them to learn traditional hands-on quality skills, skills share, to open up the conversation and encourage camaraderie that maybe they have missed since they were last serving.”
The exhibition runs from April 1 to 14 at The Station in Richmond.
The Pop-Up Shed runs most Wednesdays and Thursdays on Richmond Trading Estate in a unit opposite the council depot.
Call Sue or Dave a call on 07598355031 or email exforces@richmondshire.gov.uk to arrange a visit.
