Barkingside Art Club

It’s “Not just another art club. It’s an art club with a cause”. The Barkingside Art Club was established by Eliyah Qureshi, with a purpose to serve the community. To bring people together through despite each other’s differences with regard to ethnicity, religion, age or gender. In its truest sense, the Art Club was founded with principles of inclusivity and sharing of love for each other’s differences all through the use of visual art education. Barkingside Art Club, operates from the heart of Ilford, right out of the Fullwell Cross Library. With classes and workshops for children and adults alike - there is something to find for everyone. On a weekly basis, we host workshops for adults and creative’s who crave a social or therapeutic retreat. Every week, an hour is dedicated to parents who raise children with Special Education Needs (SEN) and learning disabilities. Here is how we stay true to our principles and work towards creating a more inclusive environment which respects mental health even more. Over the past three years, we have seen our community grow tenfold because of our efforts. Parents have found a safe space for their children to express themselves and work developing their emotional intelligence. Artist’s have found platforms through our Global exhibitions’ and business has learned to manage their stress better, therefore, improving their performing throughout workshops. We get local business involved and they started having a better understanding of art and cultural activities by becoming our sponsor.