What's new Abingdon Creatives? Workshops, Upcycled Fashion & A Prom for All

As February unfolds, Abingdon creativity is in full swing! This month marks the beginning of some exciting projects, from launching new workshops at Thameside School in Abingdon to making bold moves in our Creative Me sessions. Here’s what we’ve been up to:

Thameside ‘Place Makers’ Workshops Begin

We’ve officially kicked off our ‘Place Makers’ workshops at Thameside School! Tom from Tom Mclean created these wonderful stickers for the young people to wear after each workshops. We are working together on this project, thanks to the Vale Of The White Horse Council. This initiative is all about encouraging young minds to explore their surroundings, imagine new possibilities, and contribute to the space around them in meaningful ways. Through hands-on activities, we’re diving into what makes a place feel special and how we can bring our own creativity into shaping it. To lead into creating some art for the new Cotman Close Playground.I can’t wait to see how their vision takes shape over the next few weeks!

Creative Me: From Pre-Loved to Reimagined

Our Creative Me group has stepped into a new phase of transformation! After carefully selecting pre-loved dresses and suits, we’re now in the early stages of reimagining them. This week, we focused on fashion illustration, capturing the unique styles and personal expressions of each young designer. The energy in the room was incredible, with every sketch telling its own story.

Here’s a glimpse into the impact this programme can have:

"It was a lovely experience, to see what my style was and the atmosphere was great" It was clear to see that missing out on prom left a big gap of experience. Our young people range from being in school to not, so it can feel very isolating when you miss out on these milestones. It’s beautiful to see how each person’s identity is reflected in their designs, and I can’t wait to share more of their transformations in the coming weeks.

Find out more about Creative Me here

Creating a Prom for Those Who Missed Out

And following on from the amazing experience and feedback from Creative Me - We’re planning something special—a prom for those who weren’t able to attend or missed out. We are in talks with Madrina to see the possibilites. Everyone deserves a night to dress up, celebrate, and make memories, and we want to create that opportunity. If you’d like to get involved or know someone who would love to attend, please reach out! Prom for all!

New Website Page for the Life Space Project

Exciting news—our new website page for the Life Space Project is live! 🎉 Go check it out here to learn more about our mission, ongoing projects, and how to get involved.

For Funders: What We’re Looking For

We’re always looking to connect with funders who share our passion for creativity, sustainability, and community empowerment. If you’re interested in supporting our projects—whether through financial backing, material donations, or partnership opportunities—please reach out. Let’s create meaningful change together!

This Month’s Freebie!

I love sharing little creative gifts with this community, and this month, I’ve put together a fashion illustration template to help you experiment with your own designs. Whether you want to play with colors, sketch outfit ideas, or simply doodle for fun, you can download it for free simple sign up to our Creative Community to receive.

Next Kids Fashion Day – April

Our next Kids Fashion Day is coming up in April! Join us as we go shopping in our local charity shops to find materials and bedsheets to transform into capes, wands, and other magical pieces. Whether you want to craft your own enchanted look or simply enjoy the creative process, we’d love to have you with us! Book here

February has been a month of fresh starts and creative breakthroughs. I’m so grateful for the energy and passion everyone is bringing into these projects. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue crafting, imagining, and bringing new ideas to life!

With creativity & warmth,
Jess

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How Abingdon’s Creative Community Is Blossoming in March: Re-Imagining Fashion & Inspiring Programmes

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Creative Me Programme, Art Residencies & New Opportunities