Each week, as part of our holistic offering, we provide six arts sessions, as well as monthly arts field trips to ensure access to the arts in London. Our sessions use art, writing, and music to offer refugees and people seeking asylum the chance to build community, engage their creativity, process their feelings, and take time for their mental wellbeing in a supportive environment.
Art and Writing
Our twice weekly Art and Writing classes provide a space in which people explore their own stories through painting, drawing, and poetry. Each term there is a theme, for example, the colours of the rainbow.
Sessions are led by our two Artists in Residence, illustrator Jane Ray and children’s author Sita Brahmachari and our incredible volunteers.
Choir
The Choir gathers to share songs from their own heritages, as well as to learn new songs. Many choir members find the sessions therapeutic and also a good way of staying connected to their friends and the community. Our choir is led by Romain Malan, Director of the World Harmony Orchestra.
I love the music because it makes me relax and switch off bad thoughts.
Choir member
Tea Cosy Club
Our over 60s craft and social club puts on weekly activities including crafts, sewing, and visits from local arts groups e.g. the Arcola Theatre, the South Islington Library, and more.
Craft Corner
Thanks to a sewing machine donated by John Lewis & Partners and volunteers from Creatives Against Poverty, our sewing club and craft corner is open every week for those who want to bring in their own project or join in on a project together.
Field Trips
In partnership with Speak Street Art Talks, each month the Islington Centre co-leads a group field trip to an art exhibition, performance, or community event in London.
Islington Centre for Refugees and Migrants 