We wanted to develop a project that worked more closely with Young People to foster more in-depth engagement with sculpture over a longer period of time. In response we developed Team Sculpture in partnership with Young Enterprise Scotland. For the pilot we worked with Govan High School through their Positive Destinations Team, delivering a 10 week programme mirroring our SPG Loan Project.

Team Sculpture afforded young participants the opportunity to explore contemporary art galleries and production sites, engage in hands-on art-making sessions led by acclaimed artist David Sherry, and spearhead the placement of sculptures within their local community. This comprehensive process involved selecting suitable locations, securing permissions, choosing appropriate artworks, liaising with artists, and managing communication, logistics, and marketing tasks.

The outcomes of Team Sculpture were overwhelmingly positive, with participants gaining valuable insights into the workings of the arts industry and honing essential employment skills such as presentations, marketing, and project management. Moreover, the program instilled a profound sense of pride and confidence within the group, fostering meaningful interactions with their community. Creative engagement proved to be a powerful tool for connecting with participants, as site visits and artistic endeavors provided novel experiences and access to previously unexplored spaces.

Collaborating with artist David Sherry on wearable sculptures pushed participants beyond their comfort zones, resulting in tangible increases in confidence and self-expression. By the program’s conclusion, participants were equipped to confidently articulate their opinions and perspectives on contemporary art—an achievement we celebrate wholeheartedly.

The success of the Team Sculpture Project has not only enriched the lives of participants but has also provided invaluable insights for future endeavors. We are excited about the potential for translating these learnings into a new partnership project with Barnardo’s Gap Homes, furthering our mission to empower and inspire through the transformative power of art.