Young Artist Mentor Programme

Hannah opened with the story of the development of Kettle’s Yard house and gallery, by Jim and Helen Ede, who wanted to change the way art was experienced, perceived and integrated as part of our everyday lives. Hannah and Jess then told us about the current Bridges art project in Cambridge which aims to overcome economic and cultural divides in Cambridgeshire, through art.

“Bridges is a new and exciting programme at Kettle’s Yard for young people aged 14-19 years. It aims to empower young people, giving them confidence and agency in art spaces by using art exploration as a tool to support their personal and creative growth.

Bridges is a three-year project (2024 – 2026). For each year, an artist with a socially engaged practice is selected by young people taking part in the project.

Currently, Jess Mulvey, is working with young people as part of this initiative.

“I am the founder of A Social Arts Practice (ASAP), a community arts and co-design practice that seeks to empower young people through giving them true agency over fun, inspiring and dynamic creative projects.

My first priority for Bridges is to create an positive, open atmosphere to learn about the arts, culture and places that the young people are excited by as we begin to explore the question “what and where do we connect to?” We will discuss the meaning of the term “fine art” and playfully challenge the separation of art and audience and the implicit rules of the gallery space. We will be connecting to how spaces make us feel and a culture of reflection with focus on care and well-being will be created. Just as Jim and Helen Ede used Kettle’s Yard as a place to care for others.”

Following a fast and fun architectural design activity using only spaghetti and marshmallows our students thought about what they could stand to gain from becoming involved in the Young Artist Mentor Programme:

• A deeper understanding of art as a tool for social change
• Opportunities to mentor younger people
• Skills sessions such as workshop design and delivery
• Learning how to work with curators and spaces
• Networking with creatives
• Work experience for CVs
• Opportunities to offer Kettle’s Yard institutional critique regarding accessibility from young people’s perspectives

At the end of the half hour workshop all 23 students had signed up to take part.

We can’t wait to hear about their activities!