The Arts Society Chiswick - Young Arts Project

Our first Young Arts project supported a collaboration between Magic Lantern and the Cambridge School in Shepherd's Bush.

Magic Lantern is a charity which uses visual learning and works of art to help children observe and explore the world around them. It presents interactive art shows in the classroom, as its website says, "to encourage pupils to see things differently and to work out what is going on for themselves."

The Cambridge School is a mixed state Special School for 11-16 year olds with Special Needs, whether in terms of language, communication or social or emotional development.

We funded four Magic Lantern sessions at the school during the summer term. Two members of The Arts Society Chiswick attended a morning session. They were impressed by the variety of artworks used in the sessions, and the children's enthusiasm, particularly when responding to the modern pieces.

We hope to maintain the connection with both Magic Lantern and the Cambridge School. The school is at present fundraising for an outdoor Sensory Garden/Classroom. We are considering whether we will be able to offer some financial support for this initiative in the future.