Art project aims to boost self-confidence

Mar 12 2008 by Ben Schofield, Liverpool Daily Post

THE Liverpool skyline and the issues facing vulnerable children in their community were the inspiration behind an art project started at St George’s Hall yesterday.

More than 20 youngsters, aged seven to 17, collaborated on My Backyard and the Local Area as part of the Art Matters initiative.

The project is a joint venture between children’s charity NCH and Ernst & Young. The budding artists, from the NCH youth mentoring scheme and NCH Liverpool family intervention project, created pieces of work that illustrate their life in the city and the issues that impact on them in their community.

They were led by artists Raksha Patel and Louise Henery.

Project worker Julia Boardman said: “The aim of the project is to bring together young people and children and participate in an art project, something they have never done before.

“The initiative aims to develop their self esteem, self confidence, team building and to learn new skills. This is a fantastic opportunity for these children.”

The artwork will become part of a national display in London later this year.