2007-2008
Printer-friendly versionOur City
'Our City' projects explore the art, heritage, environment and architecture of Dundee through the eyes of young people living here. Tailored to different participant groups, each project works with the interests and experiences of young people to encourage creativity and raise awareness of issues of citizenship, community and diversity.
In 2008, young people from Menzieshill High School, CHOICE Project and Lochee Clubhouse explored aspects of their own local environment through photography, sound recording, drawing, ceramics and creative writing, leading to the creation of permanent artworks.
New Landscapes
How do we see the world around us?
Children, young people and adults from the Charleston area looked at their environment in lots of new ways during the 'New Landscapes' project. From sources such as the industrial history of the area to wildlife that would have roamed where streets now exist, residents made creative responses to create 'new landscapes'.
During the project, young people used digital photography, sound recording and clay printing to show us a snapshot of their landscape and how they see it.
The group explored the area by taking photographs of everything around them, from the contents of bins to the changing skies.
Children explored the bugs and beasties of the area through costume and drama, and gradually turned into small, colourful mini beasts of their own design...
The 'New Landscapes' project and exhibition took place in Charleston Community Centre in summer 2008.
Local Hero!
James Guthrie Orchar
Local Hero! is a creative learning programme for children that aims to raise awareness and encourage exploration of Dundee's stories, buildings and collections and the role they play in shaping how the City sees and defines itself today.
In Autumn 2008, Primary 5/6 pupils from Glebelands Primary School explored the story of James Guthrie Orchar - a prominent Dundee inventor, engineer and entrepreneur. Remembered as a passionate patron of the Arts, he was responsible for the design of the Victoria Galleries which opened in 1889 at the Albert Institute (now The McManus). On his death, he bequeathed his huge collection of Victorian art to the people of Dundee to be enjoyed to this day.
Children explored Victorian life and art through a programme of heritage, visual art and drama workshops, creating their own exciting artworks and organising a grand exhibition at Baxter Park Pavilion.
What people said about Creative Connections .....
"Children were well supported throughout the workshops without having their creativity or independence compromised and it meant they took real ownership of the work" - Primary School Teacher
"I've never been involved in an arts project before and I must admit it was different to what I expected - I've really enjoyed it. No phone ringing, no-one at the door, it's been me time" - Adult Learner
"The project has been a tremendous success as a result of the way local people have got involved. The approachability of the Creative Learning Team has swept away the feeling that cultural activities were 'for other people, not us'. Art has now become an important part of Centre life - thank you for helping us do this!" - Community Education Worker
