Artworks: Empowering Creativity and Community in South Yorkshire
Artworks is more than an arts organisation—it’s a vibrant, inclusive community that empowers individuals with learning disabilities and autism to express themselves and develop professional skills. Focused on fostering independence, creativity, and opportunities for self-employment, Artworks is transforming lives and enriching the cultural landscape of South Yorkshire.
The Visionary Behind Artworks
Artworks was founded by Kayleigh, whose journey into social enterprise is as inspiring as the organisation itself. Formerly a film and TV location manager, Kayleigh transitioned into this field after volunteering at a Sheffield charity.
Tragically, the charity burned down, but the individuals Kayleigh met there became the founding members of Artworks. “I wanted to create a space where people could develop creative skills at a professional level,” Kayleigh shares. Artworks was born out of the desire to go beyond arts and crafts, offering a platform where artists can excel, gain recognition, and thrive creatively.
Creativity Without Limits
At Artworks, no two days are the same. On any given day, artists might be sculpting with glass, creating animations, painting murals in Sheffield, or learning life skills like cooking. Activities are tailored to the interests of the artists, ensuring they remain engaged and inspired.
Artworks also introduces its community to the wider world of art through private exhibitions, commissions, and events like film festivals and visits to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park. These experiences provide invaluable inspiration and help showcase the incredible talent within Artworks.
Collaboration Through SEGA and Beyond
Artworks’ involvement with the Sheffield Social Enterprise Growth Accelerator (SEGA) programme has led to valuable collaborations. For example, Artworks is working with Printed By Us to produce merchandise for its International Arts Festival, Artworks Together. The partnership is expected to grow, with plans for additional products to sustain Artworks’ mission.
SEGA’s one-to-one mentoring has also been crucial. Expert mentor Kris Mackay has been instrumental in helping Artworks develop a project that will employ artists with disabilities and improve accessibility in galleries across the UK. Kayleigh highlights the impact of this support: “Without it, we’d never have got it off the starting blocks.”
A Vision for the Future
Artworks has big dreams. At the heart of its future plans is the development of a national disability arts gallery based in South Yorkshire. The planned gallery at Kelham Island will be a prototype, showcasing the potential for a space dedicated to artists with disabilities. This gallery aims to:
Employ individuals with disabilities.
Offer free workshops for schoolchildren and the local community.
Become a cultural landmark, attracting visitors to Sheffield.
Transforming this dream into reality will require significant funding and collaboration, and Artworks is actively seeking support to make it happen.
Why Artworks Matters
Artworks is a beacon of possibility, proving that with the right tools and support, individuals with disabilities can achieve extraordinary things. Kayleigh’s leadership, combined with the talents of the artists and the dedication of the team, makes Artworks a transformative force in South Yorkshire.
Whether you’re an aspiring artist, a potential partner, or someone who believes in the power of creativity, Artworks invites you to join its journey. Together, we can ensure that art is for everyone and that South Yorkshire becomes a hub for inclusivity and innovation. To learn more about Artworks, support their work, or explore collaboration opportunities, visit their website or follow them on social media.
Every contribution helps make a difference in the lives of artists and the communities they inspire.
