‘‘Doing and making are acts of hope, and as that hope grows we stop feeling overwhelmed by the troubles of the world. We remember that we — as individuals and groups — can do something about those troubles.’ Corita Kent.

CanArt make a change? Is art relevant in a crisis? How can art unite a movement? Does it need to? Perhaps art and creativity can be a more personal way to process and deal with the world around us. A private resistance to injustices we see and experience, a colourful life-vest to stop us sinking.

This creative resistance group is a gentle form of activism incorporating environmentalism, anti-capitalism and solidarity. We use a range of creative tools including collage and junk journaling, sketching and painting, print and poster making, poetry and letter writing to explore and discuss the issues of the world, develop creative practices of collective empowerment and action, finding ways to express ourselves in hope and resistance.

Each session, our facilitator Sarah Autumn will begin by sharing examples and insights from existing and historic social movements and campaigns. As a group we’ll discuss and negotiate the theme and explore how we can respond creatively. Sarah will deliver a simple tutorial on a particular medium or practice and may sometimes call upon arty friends of Left Bank to offer their expertise. You can follow along or create independently using the materials provided.

Creative Resistance FAQs

How often is the group? The group will take place once a month on a Wednesday evening at Left Bank Leeds as part of the Culture Club.

What time is the group? The creative resistance group starts at 6.30pm.

Between 6.30-6.45 you’ll have time to arrive, get a drink and acquaint yourself with the group. We wrap up by about 8pm but Left Bank remains open and you are welcome to stay and work on your creations and socialise.

How much does it cost? We are offering this group for free with the option to donate as you feel. Any donations received will go towards the continued running of Culture Club at Left Bank Leeds.

Do I need any special skills or equipment? This group is open to people of all abilities, interests and backgrounds. We ask that you either bring your own journal or sketchbook (there will be some available to purchase) but all other materials including paper to work on will be provided. The sessions follow a theme and a loose structure and you’ll be able to engage with the theme by collaging, sketching, writing, print or poster making and more. Each session there will be a plan, for example during the Iconic faces session, we’ll be creating portrait collages inspired by Che Geuvara and Frida Khalo. You can follow the plan of the session or work in your journal independently.

Can I suggest a theme? Yes! I have planned several sessions but we’ll also respond to the times and pertinent issues. If you have a specific session for a lesson, you can email me at sarahaautumn@gmail.com

If you have any other questions email us with the address above and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.‍