Branching Out was a project that combined art, nature and physical activity, which we know has an enormous positive impact on mental health and well-being.

 

Funded by Groundwork, the project was run by established artist Rebecca Atherton. The project aimed to inspire, engage and empower our community of women, who would not normally access such opportunities. Rebecca delivered a series of engaging creative workshops with a group of South Asian women, using a variety of techniques and processes to create vibrant, characterful headdresses. Throughout the creative workshops, we explored themes of nature, wellness, and self-expression, using the natural world and different cultural traditions as inspiration. It was amazing to see how these different cultures came through in the style of each unique headdresses. 
 
We know that art and outdoor activity are hugely successful in tackling mental health issues such as loneliness, anxiety and stress. Thus, the project included a balance of indoor studio workshops and outdoor workshops in local green spaces. As well as 10 workshops, a celebration meal and photoshoot, we went on two trips; one trip to Manchester Art Gallery and the other to the National Science and Media Museum in Bradford.