ARTful Dodgers at Fireside, Birmingham, Week 3

This week was allot more relaxed than last. The individuals in the session were still partaking in their individual activities, however there was a feeling of camaraderie within the group that had not been there the week before. After the suggestion of the title "Past, Present and Future' was unsuccessful in creating excitement for the project another more open title must be conceived. A project that brings the individuals together as a group perhaps starting with the initial session being focused on a group piece. Something for the team to discuss and develop.

The 'regulars' are beginning to show more ownership and determination within the work they produce. Sam has a real interest in cartoons and characters, she has an amazing observational skill, one that needs to be encouraged. Calvin is still working hard on his beach scene, we are really looking forward to seeing the finished piece. All are excited about the possibility of exhibiting however some need some more encouragement and or guidance. Yet another reason for a group project to be developed...

ARTful Dodgers at Fireside, Birmingham, Week 2

Calvin Hard at work.



The beginnings of 'Past, Present, Future' a possible group exhibition or project.

This week the atmosphere and dynamic within the group had completely changed. Everyone segregating themselves into a their own safe individual environments. Through out the session we heard reports of the night before, some members of the project had been involved in disagreements and arguments, resulting in some not showing for the Friday session and others, feeling alone and isolated. It was certain that the dynamic had changed, we just hoped that it would be for one week only.

In the morning the team, Emma and I, visited HMP Grendon, a unique facility, in the middle of the oxfordshire countryside. Grendon is a one of a kind, a therapeutic prison that works through the use of therapeutic communities. Inmates have to request to serve the end of their sentence at this facility, it is a way of integration back into society, many trials have proved its worth as a centre of rehabilitation. The team were influenced by the meeting greatly and began planning a project that would hopefully lend itself, as it does in Grendon to a development of self confidence and awareness of emotion that is deemed necessary for such individuals regain a place within 'normal' society.