We believe in the power of the arts to shape lives. Our dedicated programme of activities supports children and young people with the least access to the arts to engage with creativity, encouraging curiosity, building new skills and sparking creative inspiration.
Categories
Beneficiaries
Situation
There is significant underfunding of the arts both in the curriculum and the community, and evidence shows arts access is lowest in areas of deprivation and within under-represented communities, increasing the need for free, accessible creative programmes for young people who are currently under-served in the arts. Whitechapel Gallery is located in Tower Hamlets, the fastest growing, youngest borough in England, where over 60% of residents are people of colour and 41% live in poverty.
Solution
Evidence shows that engagement with art not only improves young people’s cognitive ability and academic attainment, but inspires creativity, boosts confidence and mental health, and encourages social cohesion. Our Participation Programme is locally embedded, targeting local residents, with a commitment to ensuring under 18s receive free access to all exhibitions as well as offering a varied programme of workshops, visits, projects and events that inspire creativity and enrich understanding.
