East Thames hosts event dedicated to the arts

East Thames hosted a one day art event, for over 50 students with additional learning needs from the Newham College of Further Education.

Participants took part in workshops about art, music and film and had the opportunity to get information and advice on employment and training courses in Newham and Stratford.

The day culminated in the launch of the ‘ I Am..’ art exhibition which will be on show in the East Gallery until the end of June. The work focuses on who they are as individuals and how they use the art form to express themselves.

Participant Janet said “I really enjoyed today, I got to learn new things and have fun with my friends, I enjoyed looking at the artwork from the exhibition too and I’m really pleased with how it all went, I look forward to the next event.”

East Thames Director of Communities and Neighbourhoods, Pamela Gardner said: “As a housing provider who also provides supported housing for people with learning disabilities, we know how important it is to encourage learning. The art project has brought people together and given the participants a sense of achievement. They’ve done a great job and we’ve really enjoyed working with Newham College.”

The ‘I am..’ exhibition supports National Learning Disability Week (18-24 June) and is open to the public from May- June 29 2012, Monday to Friday from 8am – 6pm. The gallery is located on the ground floor of East Thames’ head office, 29 – 35 West Ham Lane, Stratford, E15 4PH.