What was your defining image of Kirkstall Art Trail 2024? Maybe one of the wide variety of artists held your attention like a brush in hand. Possibly one of the workshops or demonstrations captured you the most. Could it be that the upcycled fashion show or poetry sashayed into your creative imagination. Perhaps all of these things inspired you to try your hand at something new or do that thing you used to enjoy.
For our volunteer organisers the joy we have from the art trail is from seeing the community come together. Art in all its forms can connection community in all of its guises. We are glad to have a Kirkstall community, a west Leeds community, a Leeds community, a community of artists, the fashion designers and the poets, the makers and crafters, all of the communities.
The comments from visitors and contributors speak volumes about the positive impact the event for all involved. From our workshops and displays, to our legacy and neighbourhood projects, there is a tangible boost from the magical coming together. A little like ripples in water, this impact spreads and it is through our supporters and fund providers (Leeds City Council’s Inner West Leeds Community Committee, Ceg, and members of the public) we all grow.
Now that Kirkstall Art Trail 2024 has finished (almost, see below), it’s time for us to say thank you. 2024 took eight months to organise, and as volunteers there were many life events we accommodated and plan around.
Our event is only possible because of the people who come, either as visitors or contributors. Our aim is to encourage engagement and education with art, so seeing people share their experiences and knowledge makes all the hard work worth it. It’s not hard work at all when people make arrangements to carry their connections forward.
Kirkstall Art Trail will return in 2025 for a special year, though there is an opportunity to help us celebrate:
What: Wrap ‘Fuddle’ Party
When: from 7pm Wednesday 24 July 2024
Where: Kirkstall Educational Cricket Club (Venue 24 on the map), Queenswood Drive, LS6 3HT
What: Drinks will be available from the bar. Bring your own snacks.
Artists, visitors, hosts, and volunteers are all welcome.
If you would like to help us organise Kirkstall Art Trail use the contact form on our website or social media to say hello. Volunteering is an excellent way of bringing communities together.
Written by Jim Corah
