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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260414T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260414T120000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20260330T144238Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260330T145225Z
UID:10000610-1776162600-1776168000@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Take Part in Refugee Week
DESCRIPTION:A partnership event exploring Refugee Week 2026 \n\n\n\n\nJoin this event to learn more about Refugee Week and the intersection of arts\, mental health and displacement with Counterpoints Arts. \nRefugee Week is the world’s largest arts and culture festival celebrating the contributions\, creativity and resilience of refugees and people seeking sanctuary. Refugee Week 2026 will take place from 15–21 June and will explore the theme Courage\, marking the 75th anniversary of the Refugee Convention. \nThe session will include a case study and practical guidance on embedding good mental health practice when planning Refugee Week events or working with people from displaced backgrounds. \nSign up to the event here  \nThis event is a partnership between Counterpoints Arts and a collective of UK creative health networks: The Culture\, Health & Wellbeing Alliance; London Arts and Health; Arts\, Culture\, Health & Wellbeing Scotland; the Wales Arts\, Health & Wellbeing Network; the Northern Ireland Creative Health Network and Arts Care. \n\n\n\n\nAgenda\n\n\n\n10:30 AM – 10:40 AM \nWelcome & housekeeping\n\nCHWA\n\n10:40 AM – 10:55 AM \n\n\nAbout the Week\n\nCounterpoints\n\nAbout the Week – and how you can take part \n\n\n10:55 AM – 11:05 AM \nCase study\n11:05 AM – 11:20 AM \n\n\nCounterpoints + Mental Health Guidebook\n\nCounterpoints\n\n11:20 AM – 11:45 AM \n\n\nDiscussion & Q&A\n11:45 AM – 12:00 PM \n\n\nClosing remarks
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/take-part-in-refugee-week/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom\, via Counterpoints 128 Hoxton Street\, London\, N1 6SH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Refugee Week
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Courage.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260115T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260115T160000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20260113T165541Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260113T165602Z
UID:10000588-1768474800-1768492800@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:HOLDING SPACE: Arts\, Refugees and Mental Health
DESCRIPTION:We invite you to a vital conversation at the intersection of arts\, refugee experiences and mental health. This gathering will explore how cultural institutions can hold space for artists and communities with refugee backgrounds\, supporting both creative expression and wellbeing. \nTogether\, we will examine models of good practice\, share knowledge across sectors and build collaborative strategies that centre inclusion\, resilience and care. We hope to not only spark dialogue and build connections\, but to co-create and actionable plan that strengthens the role of organisations in supporting refugee communities and artists. \nThis gathering is a collaboration between Counterpoints Arts and V&A South Kensington \nThis event is by invitation. For more information please contact hello@counterpoints.org.uk \nRead more about the work of Counterpoints Arts on the arts\, refugees and mental health
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/holding-space-arts-refugees-and-mental-health/
LOCATION:V&A\, Cromwell Rd\, London\, SW7 2RL
CATEGORIES:Mental Health
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Holding-Space-website-slider.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251124T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251124T170000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20251104T123846Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251104T140324Z
UID:10000585-1763982000-1764003600@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Holding Space: Bradford 2025
DESCRIPTION:Arts\, Refugees and Mental Health National Gathering: Exploring the role of creativity in supporting the wellbeing of refugees and asylum seekers.\nWe are delighted to announce Holding Space – Arts\, Refugees and Mental Health National Gathering Bradford 2025. \nDeveloped in partnership between Bradford 2025 and Counterpoints Arts\, this event will bring together artists\, activists\, community groups and health & wellbeing professionals\, to explore the role of art and creativity in supporting the wellbeing of refugees and asylum seekers. \nCounterpoints Arts supports the arts by and about refugees and migrants and works at the intersection of climate justice\, racial justice\, mental health and displacement. Our arts\, refugees and mental health programme connects people and organisations across different disciplines and facilitates collaboration and shared learning. \nA City of Sanctuary since 2010\, Bradford nurtures a culture of welcome and safety for migrant communities. \nFree registration \nWhat to expect:\n-Engaging speakers and panels\n-Interactive sessions exploring kind and caring ways of working together\n-Networking opportunities\n-Food & marketplace \nFull programme to follow.
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/holding-space-bradford-2025/
LOCATION:Bradford Live\, 1 Thornton Rd\, Bradford\, BD1 2EP\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Learning,Mental Health
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/16713_The-Peace-Meal_Karol-Wyszynski.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251003T153000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251003T180000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20251008T203702Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251008T203702Z
UID:10000580-1759505400-1759514400@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:“We all love music we all love to dance and we all love food”
DESCRIPTION:A community event with refugees and asylum seekers in Norwich with a focus on the arts\, mental health and wellbeing. \nWith the Norwich Sanctuary Ambassadors\, Zainab Project and Norwich City of Sanctuary Health Stream \nFeaturing a community meal\, music and singing. \nPresented and co-commissioned as part of the Platforma festival 2025\, produced by Counterpoints Arts. \nFor safeguarding reasons this event is by invite only.
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/we-all-love-music-we-all-love-to-dance-and-we-all-love-food/
LOCATION:London
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Platforma
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Screen-Shot-2025-10-08-at-21.35.27.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250816T123000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250816T133000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20250811T125757Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250811T153601Z
UID:10000543-1755347400-1755351000@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Gaza\, Dance and Hope
DESCRIPTION:Join us at WE OUT HERE Festival. We will be hosting a panel discussion about Gaza\, Dance and Hope. From a conversation with Gaza based Breakdance crew Camp Breakerz\, co-founder Funk told us: “The sky is above us\, the ground is beneath us\, and we are here.”Using this as a guide\, we’ll explore how dance functions as therapeutic movement\, a form of resistance\, and a tool for solidarity. \nPanelists: \nClint Sinclair\nMaren Ellermann\nMona El Ghazl\nNzinga Mascall \nHosted by Rain Crew and ARCCA Magazine. Supported by Counterpoints Arts. \n\n\nFind further information on WE OUT HERE festival and ticket information here
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/gaza-dance-and-hope/
LOCATION:Wimborne St Giles in Dorset\, St. Giles House\, Wimborne St Giles\, Dorset\, BH21 5NA\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Performance & Dance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/WeOutHere.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250525T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250525T230000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20250423T123617Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250514T084746Z
UID:10000490-1748185200-1748214000@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Move Together x Camps Breakerz
DESCRIPTION:A fundraising event for Camps Breakerz in Gaza. We will be exploring how movement can provide connection\, resilience & hope.\nYou can book your tickets here \nGet set for a packed day of battles\, music\, conversations and performances celebrating Palestine\, activism and hip-hop culture. Join in the 2v2 Breaking – or simply come down and watch! \nThe event will include: \n\nA therapeutic movement workshop led by Camps Breakerz co-founder Ahmed Alghariz;\nA panel discussion with Ahmed and Palestinian dancers & artists;\nLive music and dance performances; DJs\, MCs & rappers;\nA 2v2 Get Down for Gaza breaking competition\n\n\nSCHEDULE\n\n\n2pm-3pm – Trauma Informed Dance Workshop with Ahmed Alghariz (Camps Breakerz) \n3pm – Doors Open \n4pm-5pm – Panel Discussion and Q&A with Camps Breakerz \n5pm-6pm – Live Music and DJs \n6pm-7pm – Dance Showcase and Dance Battle Registration \n7pm-8pm – Battle Prelims \n8pm-10pm – Battles \n10-11pm – Doors close \n\n  \nThis event is a collaboration between Camps Breakerz\, Arcca Magazine\, Rain Crew and Counterpoints as part of Creativity & Wellbeing week.
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/move-together-x-camps-breakerz/
LOCATION:Peckham Levels\, 95a Rye Ln\, London\, SE15 4ST
CATEGORIES:Creativity & Wellbeing Week,Mental Health,Performance & Dance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/battle_of_the_week_01.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250524T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250524T190000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20250407T165522Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250425T141957Z
UID:10000482-1748113200-1748113200@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:No Direction Home presents: New Voices
DESCRIPTION:Hosted by Yasmeen Audisho Ghrawi \n7pm\, Hoxton Hall – May Scott Studio\, pay what you can \nJoin us for an evening of fresh stand-up from new comedians. Laughter guaranteed! Family friendly\, presented by Counterpoints Arts and Hoxton Hall as part of Creativity and Wellbeing Week. \nThe No Direction Home comedy collective has been running since 2019 to support new comics from refugee and migrant backgrounds\, featuring workshops\, expert tuition and gigs around the country. \nThe gig will be followed by a discussion about the role of comedy in supporting mental health and well-being\, with audience Q&A. \n\nYasmeen Audisho Ghrawi is a performer and comedian. Her new show From The Daughter of a Dictator is touring the UK in 2025. She leads facilitation for No Direction Home workshops.\n\nNo Direction Home is produced by Counterpoints Arts as part of our PopChange initiative.
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/no-direction-home-presents-new-voices/
LOCATION:Hoxton Hall\, 130 Hoxton Street\, London\, N1 6SH
CATEGORIES:Comedy,Creativity & Wellbeing Week,Mental Health
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Copy-of-EDITABLE-No-Direction-Home-Poster-1920-x-1080-px.png.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250523T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250523T210000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20250516T094753Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250519T101628Z
UID:10000502-1748026800-1748034000@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Sounds Like Home Choir and friends
DESCRIPTION:The Sounds Like Home Choir warmly invites you to an evening of live music and discussion to celebrate ‘Creativity and Wellbeing Week\, Friday 23rd May at Centre 151\, 7pm – 9pm. \nThe evening will feature:\nThe Sounds Like Home Choir: An open-access community choir of international women\, sharing a variety of songs in acapella harmony that remind us of home. \nHilanderas: Chilean actors\, singers and creatives Stephi Prieto and Valentina Infante perform ‘Voices of the Earth’\, exploring the deep links between women’s subordination and the exploitation of the land. \nMahshid & Dario: Iranian musical duo play a selection of Persian\, Arabic and Hindi songs with voice and guitar\, transcending borders and celebrating cultural connection through music that is both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. \nPanel Discussion\nThe performances will be followed by a relaxed panel discussion to explore the connection between creativity and wellbeing\, featuring some of the performers and hosted by Counterpoints Arts. \nChats and Snacks\nWe will round off the evening with home cooked finger food\, lovingly prepared by members of the Sounds Like Home Choir. Please stick around and have a chat. \n  \nSounds Like Home Choir is currently funded by Arts Council England and is run by Ellen Muriel and Asha Wilson. \nIt was originally commissioned by Counterpoints Arts and has been supported by Old Street Community Pot and Hackney Council. \nMany thanks to Hoxton Hall for hosting weekly sessions and Centre 151 for this performance opportunity.
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/sounds-like-home-choir-and-friends/
LOCATION:Centre 151\, 151 Whiston Road\, London\, E2 8GU
CATEGORIES:Creativity & Wellbeing Week,Mental Health,Music
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Screen-Shot-2024-11-20-at-09.42.24.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250523T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250523T180000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20250423T141007Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250502T081037Z
UID:10000491-1748005200-1748023200@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Stitch and Care
DESCRIPTION:This half day workshop (1-5pm) on Friday 23 rd May with artists Lynn Setterington & Jill Eastland and Oldham Library and is an afternoon of knowledge exchange around textiles\, displacement and mental health as part of Creativity and Wellbeing Week. \nIt takes place at the Fashion and Textile Museum in the studio where Lynn Setterington’s stitched cloths and quilts are currently on display. The session explores how libraries\, smaller museums\, and community organisations can engage audiences using creative outreach to improve and aid mental health. Using the 5 Ways to Wellbeing\, connect\, be active\, take notice\, keep learning & give\, the event is a partnership with Counterpoints Arts and the Fashion and Textile Museum\, London. \nPlease email tom@counterpoints.org.uk to reserve a free place. The event is open to all\, regardless of previous experience. \n1-1.10pm Welcome\n1.10 – 2.10pm Lynn Setterington’s visual talk showcases some of her key projects and partnership work and details how she uses stitch\, textile archives and folk art to create artworks with and for refugee communities.\n2.10 – 2.40pm – Oldham Libraries staff and volunteers talk about creative community engagement work and the value of Speak English classes\n2.40 – 3pm Tea break\n3 -3.50pm Collaborative stitch session\n3.50 – 4.30pm An interactive\, participatory and performative discussion with artist and activist Jill Eastland.\n4.30 – 5pm Q + A – suggestions /ideas\n5 – 6pm Time to look round the  Art of Mankind exhibition \nLynn Setterington is an internationally recognised textile artist. Her work explores contemporary issues and how stitch can be used to commemorate people and communities. Her quilts and cloths are held in many major public museums including the V&A\, Crafts Council\, IQSC and Whitworth Art Gallery. Born in Yorkshire\, she trained at Goldsmith’s College. Her PhD is from UCA Farnham. She a Senior Lecturer at Manchester Metropolitan University. \nJill Eastland is an activist artist and a survivor of mixed heritage. Her work explores themes of social and climate justice. She favours community based and collaborative working practices. She often employs multiples; to create a more detailed discussion of a theme and she tends to produce open-ended bodies of work\, as well as finished pieces. Her work is often very detailed and can contain elements of realism and abstraction together. Participants will be invited to wear the uniforms of low-paid and precarious workers\, particularly the ubiquitous dark blue tabard. These uniforms mark people out as different and yet at the same time render them invisible. They are often worn by people who are marginalised and discriminated against including Migrants\, Refugees\, Black People\, Women and People who have Disabilities. Together\, we will explore the mental health ramifications of the low pay and poor working conditions that people wearing these uniforms encounter daily. \n\n		\n		\n			\n				\n			\n			\n		\n\nTextiles: The Art of Mankind at the Fashion and Textile Museum celebrates the ancient and deep entanglement between textiles\, people and our world. Through the beauty of textiles\, you will encounter human ingenuity that can be traced from pre-history to our digital age.
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/stitch-and-care/
LOCATION:Fashion and Textile Museum\, 83 Bermondsey St\, London\, SE1 3XF\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Community & Participation,Creativity & Wellbeing Week,Mental Health,Textiles
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Oldham-work.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250521T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250521T203000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20250423T113048Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250425T142048Z
UID:10000488-1747854000-1747859400@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:The Things We Don't Say - Online Screening and Q&A
DESCRIPTION:SYNOPSIS\nA group of young adults born during or just after the 1994 genocide against Rwanda’s Tutsi people gather to find the courage to break a powerful taboo. Rwanda is one of the few nations in the world providing specialist counselling for children conceived through rape\, who number 10\,000 across the country. Here\, course leader Emilienne\, a mother\, therapist and genocide survivor\, helps the group to imagine a future free from family secrets and societal stigma. In a circle of supportive peers\, they tell their individual stories and face their struggles together\, in the hope their participation will advocate for others facing similar trauma \n  \nABOUT ORNELLA\n“I escaped the Rwanda genocide as a baby. I returned to find many of my generation have buried their pain.”  Learn more about filmmaker Ornella Mutoni here \n  \nThe screening and Q&A will be facilitated by Community Mental Health professional Nzinga Mascall as part of Creativity & Wellbeing week. \nIf you’d like to attend this event please fill in this short form and you’ll receive a calendar invite with link.
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/the-things-we-dont-say-online-screening-and-qa/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Creativity & Wellbeing Week,Film,Mental Health
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/The-Things-We-Dont-Say.jpg.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250520T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250520T140000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20250423T110350Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250512T162251Z
UID:10000487-1747746000-1747749600@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Creativity\, Displacement and Mental Health Webinar
DESCRIPTION:In this webinar\, we will hold space for artists\, organisers\, health\, cultural and migrant justice workers to come together to consider the role of art and creativity and its impact on the mental health and wellbeing of refugees and sanctuary seekers. Please book your spot by filling in this short form and you’ll receive a calendar invite with a meetinglink. \nThis event is a collaboration between Norwich City of Sanctuary Health Stream and Counterpoints Arts as part of Creativity & Wellbeing week. \nWith case studies\, guest speakers and discussions\, we are offering an opportunity to reflect on what good practice looks like and to discuss some of the opportunities and challenges that may be faced when developing creative projects by and with newly arrived communities with a focus on addressing mental health needs. \nPROGRAMME \n\nCity of Sanctuary Case Study ‘I Will Heal’ highlighting the potential of creative interventions for ASR health and wellbeing \nA Medics Perspective with Emily Clark\nA Creative Directors Perspective with Simon Floyd\nAn Sanctuary Ambassadors perspective with Lamis Al-Shaibani\n\n  \nDISCUSSION(Facilitated by Counterpoints) \n\nHow can art support those within the asylum process?\nHow can we bring health services and the arts closer together?\n\n  \nThe webinar will be held on Zoom. \n  \n  \nIf you have any questions please reach out to maren@counterpoints.org.uk \n 
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/creativity-displacement-and-mental-health-webinar/
LOCATION:Online via Zoom\, via Counterpoints 128 Hoxton Street\, London\, N1 6SH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Creativity & Wellbeing Week,Mental Health
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/I-Will-Heal.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250515T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250515T190000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20250416T121337Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250416T125155Z
UID:10000485-1747317600-1747335600@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Holding Space: Belfast
DESCRIPTION:We are thrilled to host another edition of Holding Space in Belfast\, part of a series of gatherings on art\, displacement and mental health.\nJoin us for this free\, in-person gathering bringing together artists\, refugees\, activists\, organisers\, creatives\, and those working in health\, wellbeing\, and migrant justice. \nTogether\, we’ll explore the role of art and creativity in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of refugees and asylum seekers. \nThe day will include guest speakers and small group discussions\, offering space to reflect on good practice\, share experiences\, and explore both the opportunities and challenges of developing creative projects by and with newly arrived communities\, with a focus on addressing mental health needs. \nWe’ll also consider the mental health support needed by creative practitioners working in these contexts\, and reflect on the wider systemic barriers affecting wellbeing. The event will close with a community supper. \nPlease visit The MAC Belfast to book your spot.\nIf you have any questions or concerns\, please write to maren@counterpoints.org.uk \n  \nThis event is produced by Counterpoints Arts in partnership with the MAC Belfast.
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/holding-space-belfast/
LOCATION:The MAC Belfast\, 10 Exchange St\, West Belfast\, BT1 2NJ
CATEGORIES:Mental Health
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Holding-Space-890-x-445-px.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250509T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250509T163000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20250416T115434Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250425T141851Z
UID:10000484-1746786600-1746808200@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Holding Space: Cardiff
DESCRIPTION:We are thrilled to host another edition of Holding Space in Cardiff\, part of a series of gatherings on art\, displacement and mental health.\nFor this in-person gathering\, we will hold space for artists\, organisers\, health\, cultural and migrant justice workers based in and around Cardiff to come together to consider the role of art and creativity and its impact on the mental health and wellbeing of sanctuary seekers. \nThe day will be structured around short panel conversations with guest speakers\, interactive workshops\, performances and group discussions offering an opportunity to reflect on what good practice looks like and to discuss some of the opportunities and challenges that may be faced when developing creative projects by and with newly arrived communities. The day will also feature some artistic interventions\, reflecting on the themes of the day. \nWe are especially excited to to be joined by incredible guest speakers and facilitators from Gentle/Radical\, Oasis One World Choir\, Joy Club and the Welsh Refugee Council. \nPlease visit Team Collective for more information. \nThere are limited number of spaces available. If you think you should be invited\, please write to maren@counterpoints.org.uk \nThis event is produced by Counterpoints Arts in partnership with TEAM Collective Cymru
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/holding-space-cardiff/
LOCATION:The Sustainable Studio\, 59-61 Tudor St\, Cardiff\, CF11 6AD\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Mental Health
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Holding-space-Glasgow.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20241128
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20241130
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20240124T164349Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241217T134930Z
UID:10000396-1732752000-1732924799@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:International Conference Culture & Mental Health: Refugees
DESCRIPTION:The second Culture & Mental Health international conference will take place in Ghent\, Belgium on 28 and 29 November 2024. This conference seeks to promote learning\, discussion and debate around cultural interventions aimed at improving the wellbeing of people recovering from mental health difficulties or people in vulnerable situations. The focus of this edition is on supporting the mental wellbeing of forcibly displaced people through art and culture. \nIn a report in 2022 the EU and WHO call for support for the mental wellbeing of forcibly displaced people through art and culture : “People displaced because of natural disasters\, persecution\, conflict\, generalised violence or human rights violations invariably experience significant loss\, physical hardships and other stressors that can lead to psychological distress. A large body of evidence shows how forcibly displaced people contribute positively to society. This potential can be further enhanced by ensuring that they are in good physical and mental health. Therefore\, according to the report\, it is important to support the arts\, as investing in the field is an investment in the mental\, physical and social health of forcibly displaced people.” \nThis conference wants to bring together individuals from the public\, academic\, third sector and voluntary sectors\, to share experiences\, practices and knowledge about the importance and impact of the arts\, reading\, heritage and creativity on improving mental health\, wellbeing and resilience of refugees. \nCounterpoints is part of the programme committee for the conference. \nFull details\, including call for contributions: https://www.museumdrguislain.be/en/onview-en/culture-mental-health-refugees
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/international-conference-culture-mental-health-refugees/
LOCATION:Dr Guislain Museum\, Jozef Guislainstraat 43b\, Ghent\, 09 39 86 950\, Belgium
CATEGORIES:Blog,Learning,Mental Health
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://counterpoints.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Dr-Giuslan-Museum-Ghent-Belgium.jpeg
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241026T170000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241026T183000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20240927T151833Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241022T155404Z
UID:10000464-1729962000-1729967400@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Out of Place\, Out of Mind
DESCRIPTION:We are excited to be hosting an evening of performance and discussion as part of this year’s Scottish Mental Health and Arts Festival\, shining a light on the invisibilised experience of being displaced.\n  \nWe are delighted to collaborate with the Scottish Mental Health and Arts Festival to host a bold evening of performances and discussion responding to this year’s theme of In/Visible. Through a queer lens\, the programme shines a light on the invisibilized experience of being displaced and the unfathomable challenges of rebuilding life anew. Ultimately\, as we bear witness to the incredible human capacity to resist the violence of discriminatory immigration systems\, we are reminded that mental health is inherently political.  \n7th Solicitor is a solo performance by HUSS that exposes the hostility inflicted by the government’s hostile environment policy on people seeking refuge in the UK. Over the course of 7 phone calls\, HUSS offers a personal retelling of his experience navigating the Home Office\, shining a light on the reality of the visa process in all its frustration\, monotony and dehumanisation.  \nDissent is a solo dance performance by Fadi Giha. The piece casts an intimate light on the irretrievable and hidden parts of ourselves\, as an unexpected confrontation leaves a man forced to face his darkest depths. Complicit in this encounter\, we witness a soul dancing on the brink of madness\, governed by the immortal desire to belong\, and above all\, to be accepted.  \nThe performances will be followed by a panel conversation with Esraa Hussein\, Riah Naief and HUSS reflecting on queer identities\, experiences of displacement and the capacity of art to speak to the unspeakable.  \n  \n  \nAbout the Artists & Panellists \n  \nHUSS is a queer Arab multidisciplinary artist based in Glasgow. Tackling personal and political themes\, his discipline involves experimenting and combining elements such as installation\, sculpture\, visuals and audio to culminate in immersive performance and moving image pieces. Huss uses his work to raise issues facing the Arab world that lack acknowledgment in western society\, especially topics of displacement\, queer laws and how much it has always censored and endangered artists like himself. \n  \nFadi Giha is a trained choreographer and performer. Drawn to the physicality of the human body his choreographies tend to the interdependency of body\, space\, and society. Moving between the real and the fantastical\, he combines boldness and simplicity to explore the intricacies of life. \nFadi’s latest solo piece ‘Dissent’ was commissioned by SACF in 2023 and debuted at Chelsea Theater\, London. He was invited to choreograph and perform at Frieze London 2023\, as part of Tamara Al-Mashouk’s ‘I’d Search Forever\, I Want to Remember’ at Cork St.\, London. In 2018\, Fadi choreographed a dance piece titled ‘Siege II’ at the Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts\, Damascus. \nFadi received his BA in Dance from The Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts in Damascus\, and his Choreomundus MA as an Erasmus Joint Master’s Degree scholarship holder. \n  \nRiah Naief (they/them) is a Sound Artist and Director of Glasgow’s Listen Gallery. For four years\, they have built and curated a space where artists have new opportunities to share sound and listening practices within a gallery setting that thinks beyond the white cube model. Their own sound-making practice collages Arabic prayers with synthesised frequencies to create sonic experiences that explore the intersection between sound and spirituality. Listen is an acronym of ‘love is serving the ears now’ – which considers listening as a practice of care and Iraqi-hospitality is used to lay the foundations where Queer Islamic futures can be imagined and strived towards.\n(www.listengallery.co.uk)\n\n  \nEsraa Husain (all/any pronouns) is a freelance creative writer\, community curator\, researcher and facilitator based in Glasgow. They are the founder and director of @UBelongGlasgow\, a multilingual community platform that features LGBT+\, BPOC and disabled creatives\, est. 2020. Their writings can be found online and in print in The Skinny\, Scottish BPOC Writers Network\, Kohl Journal\, Gutter\, Somewhere for Us\, The Bottle Imp and more. \n  \nBook Tickets \nThis is a ticketed\, pay what you can event (£7 / £5 / £5 / FREE). You can book your tickets here. \n  \nThis event is produced by Counterpoints Arts in partnership with The Scottish Mental Health and Arts Festival. \n  \nPhoto Credits: Ashtar Alahmad
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/out-of-place-out-of-mind-scottish-mental-health-and-arts-festival/
LOCATION:CCA Glasgow\, 350 Sauchiehall St\, Glasgow\, G2 3JD\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Mental Health,Performance & Dance
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241023T000000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241023T010000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20241023T084437Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241023T084555Z
UID:10000467-1729641600-1729645200@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Online Conversation: A New Strand – Art\, Displacement & Mental Health
DESCRIPTION:As part of the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival\, we’ve been invited by Arts Culture Health Wellbeing Scotland to host an online panel conversation to discuss our new strand of work focussing on art\, displacement & mental health.\n  \nFor this online event\, we will be in discussion with creative wellbeing practitioner Vicky Inam Mohieddeen and playwright and screenwriter Mariem Omari\, both of whom are based in Scotland. Together we will reflect on the role that art can play in having a positive impact on the wellbeing and mental health of sanctuary seekers when working in creative settings. We’ll explore the transformative role of art and discuss support structures needed to ensure that artists feel fully resourced\, supported\, and equipped to continue their impactful work. \n  \nAbout the Artists \nMariem Omari is a playwright\, screenwriter\, and Artistic Director and Co-Founder of Bijli Productions.  Her productions are described as “political\, sensitive\, and compelling\,” often confronting societal taboos. Mariem left Australia for her father’s homeland in the Middle East to work as a humanitarian. This inspired her commitment to promoting stories that strengthen the voice for equality. Her next move was to her mother’s homeland\, Scotland\, where she has been working closely with ethnically diverse communities. She was one of the National Theatre of Scotland’s Starter for 10\, selected to develop her play\, One Mississippi\, which showcased at the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival 2017\, and toured nationally in 2022.  She had three plays commissioned in 2019 – The Trojans\, performed by Syrian Refugees; Paper Memories\, 2019 National Puppetry and Animation Festival; and Walkin’ the Line\, which was part of SMHAF 2019. In 2021 she was commissioned by BBC Scotland to create Breaking Point –  a series of five short monologues for radio and digital platforms based on the stories from One Mississippi.  She is currently developing her first feature for Young Films and BBC FILM\, and is working on a documentary about the making of One Mississippi. \nVicky Inam Mohieddeen is a Scots Lebanese creative wellbeing practitioner and HCPC registered Drama Therapist. Vicky has over 15 years experience facilitating and producing creative community projects in China\, India and the UK. Utilising story\, myth\, movement and art-making\, Vicky creates spaces for people to explore challenging feelings and experiences through creativity. She has created projects for organisations including National Theatre of Scotland\, British Red Cross\, Historic Environment Scotland\, Safe in Scotland\, Amina MWRC\, NHS Borders and Dundee Rep’s Dramatherapy department. \n  \nBook Tickets \nThis is a free event\, you can book your place here. \n  \nThis event is produced by Arts Culture Health Wellbeing Scotland as part of The Scottish Mental Health and Arts Festival. \n  \nPhoto Credits: Shona Goolabi
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/online-conversation-a-new-strand-art-displacement-mental-health/
LOCATION:London
CATEGORIES:Mental Health
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241011T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241011T160000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20240925T164324Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240925T165003Z
UID:10000463-1728640800-1728662400@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Holding Space: Glasgow
DESCRIPTION:We are thrilled to host Holding Space in Glasgow this October\, the first event in a series of gatherings on art\, mental health and displacement.\n  \nFor this in-person gathering\, we will hold space for artists\, organisers\, health\, cultural and migrant justice workers based in and around Glasgow to come together to consider the role of art and creativity and its impact on the mental health and wellbeing of sanctuary seekers. \nThe day will be structured around short panel conversations with guest speakers\, group discussions offering an opportunity to reflect on what good practice looks like and to discuss some of the opportunities and challenges that may be faced when developing creative projects by and with newly arrived communities. \nWe are especially excited to have the opportunity to be in conversation with incredible guest speakers including Amal Azzudin\, Pinar Aksu\, Catrin Evans\, Mariem Omari\, Bircan Birol and Dr. Gameli Tordzro. The day will also feature two artistic interventions that reflect the themes of the day. A delicious vegan lunch will be served by Parveen’s Canteen. \nThis is an invite-only event with a limited number of spaces available. If you think you should be invited\, please write to daniela@counterpoints.org.uk. \n  \nThis event is produced by Counterpoints Arts in partnership with The Scottish Mental Health and Arts Festival\, Refugee Festival Scotland and Creative Scotland.
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/holding-space-glasgow/
LOCATION:London
CATEGORIES:Mental Health
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240622T193000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240622T203000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20240604T060310Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240709T144534Z
UID:10000427-1719084600-1719088200@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:A voice departs by Bint Mbareh
DESCRIPTION:For London Refugee Week\, Bint Mbareh will be delivering  a communal vocalising  performance which will incorporate  members of the audience in a non-musical but poetic expression.  \n A Voice Departs makes a choir of whoever is present. The choir does not sing\, it recites\, chants\, yells\, and uses the voice in non-musical ways that are obscured by the politeness and necessities of every day life. The process of turning from an audience into a choir only requires people to use their ears and voices and to be open to the invitations and offers being provided by Bint Mbareh – she might ask the group to split into groups and read different parts of a poem\, she might ask certain members to enact the rhythm of the poem by clapping or otherwise\, she might ask other members to become the echo of another group. The process of using their  voices together makes demystifies the shame and fear that lives in almost all of our voices. \nBint Mbareh is a sound artist focussed on the power of communal vocalising. Her research centres on  Palestinian folklore and its current potential for liberatory narratives\, especially in the two fields of mourning/lamentation music and music used to summon rain and to praise water resources. Bint Mbareh works with Yamen Omer\, a research collaborator. \nFree event. Reserve your spot via Eventbrite here. \nImage credit: Peter Adamik\, Impuls Festival 2022. \n 
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/bint-mbareh-communal-vocalising-performance/
LOCATION:Yorkton Workshops\, 1-3 Yorkton St\, London\, London\, E2 8NH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:London Refugee Week,Mental Health,Performance & Dance
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240622T113000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240622T133000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20240604T062428Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240709T144534Z
UID:10000432-1719055800-1719063000@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Constellations of Care: a new commission by Amanda Camenisch and Therese Westin
DESCRIPTION:This Refugee Week we celebrate the launch of Constellations of Care\, a new commission by artists Amanda Camenisch and Therese Westin\n  \nJoin us for the launch of Constellations of Care\, a new project developed by artists Amanda Camenisch and Therese Westin. \nThis two-part commission\, hosted at the Victoria & Albert Museum\, brings together a sound meditation and performance\, shining a light on the healing capacities of sound and movement. \n  \nSound Meditation \n11:30 | Raphael Gallery \nSound\, music and singing are some of the oldest ways of building community\, gathering to worship and connect with each other and the divine. \nCome along for a late morning sound meditation performed by Dotty Fernandez\, Florence Musa\, Freida C. McNeil\, Priyanka G Geriya\, Sharon and Sungyeon Kim\, who will be using 4 bespoke elemental sound sculptures. \nThe various sound sculptures built by Amanda Camenisch and Therese Westin are ceremonial and alchemical objects. They relate to different elements; Air\, Water\, Earth and Aether\, created with the intention to function as portals\, gates and activators\, to produce cleansing and uplifting frequencies. Some of the sculptures use long notes and extended reverberation times that create overtones\, building on a tradition of reverberation and echo as key sonic components for sounding in sacred spaces. \n  \nPerformance \n13:00 | Medieval Renaissance 50A \nJoin us in the afternoon for a movement-based performance\, where 16 performers come together to form intricate patterns symbolizing care\, nurture\, and love. Through a series of gestural movements\, they communicate in a language that opens empathic channels\, revealing layers of physical and emotional strength\, resilience\, lineage\, and faith. \nThe performance unfolds through a blend of structured games\, improvisation\, and rehearsed sequences. Known hymns intertwine with vocal improvisations\, harmonizing in a celebration of unity and worship. Movement and songs become vessels for communication. \nExploring the depths of the human experience\, the performers delve into the nurturing\, caring aspects of their being\, unravelling what is stored within their bodies. Boundaries blur as bodies transform into entire landscapes\, symbolising the interconnectedness of humanity and the shared experiences that bind us together. \nThe piece echoes the verse “our citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20)\, inviting contemplation on our divine connection and unity beyond earthly boundaries. \nConceived by Amanda Camenisch and Therese Westin. Performed and directed by: Abimbola\, Dotty\, Elizabeth Addoi\, Florence Musa\, Freida C. McNeil\, Funmilda Olojo\, Grace Ade\, Grace Owolabi\, Jemilat\, Kristina\, Ladun Mary Oguntoyinbo\, Leo\, Ms Jumoke\, Margaret\, Nada Alharbi\, Ola Fagbemi\, Pham B Long\, Priyanka G Geriya\, Sharon\, Sungyeon Kim\, Vanessa Mirza\, Zara.  \n  \nAbout the Project \nThis sound meditation is the continuation of an ongoing participatory project with migrants and refugees meeting regularly to explore movement and sound together. Their most recent project titled Lyra was supported by Arts Council England\, SPACE Ilford and the Community Engagement Fund. In its entirety Lyra contained an installation\, sounds sculptures\, radio programs\, workshops\, a vinyl record\, a performance project and mentorship program. Lyra explored themes around the notion of the home as a cloud\, through collective sound exploration and sculptural work over a period of 14 months. \n  \nAbout the Artists \nWorking with sound\, textiles\, sculpture and poetry as art-making and healing practices\, Amanda and Therese develop collaborative projects that centre the experiences of its participants through a trauma-informed approach. Focusing on facilitating holistic spaces and experiences that become conduits for artistic expression\, the artists tend to both individual and collective needs in the process of developing projects and creating artworks with various private and public outcomes. \nSome of the performers are people with whom Amanda and Therese have worked with for several years\, some have joined the project just a few months ago. The foundation for the collective creative process has been a deep appreciation for music and sound\, movement\, and conversations around faith and belonging. The voices and stories\, poems and songs of Abimbola\, Clara Soyinka\, Dotty\, Elizabeth Addoi\, Florence Musa\, Freida C. McNeil\, Funmilda Olojo\, Grace Ade\, Grace Owolabi\, Jani\, Ladun Mary Oguntoyinbo\, Leo\, Ms Jumoke\, Margaret\, Pham B Long\, Priyanka G Geriya\, Sharon\, Sungyeon Kim\, Vanessa Mirza\, Zara featured in a 4 part radio program on Montez Press Radio. \nThe collectively created sound scores and individual solos will be pressed onto a vinyl record that can be purchased later on in the year. \nFind our more about Lyra here.  \n  \nCommissioned as part of London Refugee Week 2024\, produced by Counterpoints Arts in collaboration with the V&A. \n  \nImage credits: Amanda Camenisch & Therese Westin
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/constellations-of-care-a-new-commission-by-amanda-camenisch-and-therese-westin/
LOCATION:V&A\, Cromwell Rd\, London\, SW7 2RL
CATEGORIES:London Refugee Week,Mental Health,Performance & Dance,Refugee Week
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240621T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240621T160000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20240607T095856Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240709T144534Z
UID:10000443-1718974800-1718985600@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Threading layers of Home by Kim Chin
DESCRIPTION:Artist Kim Chin invites us into a reflective setting\, to inspire a clearer understanding and vision of what “community” means to us. We do this by ‘visiting’ layers of ancestral\, environmental and embodied home. \nWe will explore rituals\, sharing readings and exchange thoughts while the group embroiders and collages onto fabric. \nThe intention of the workshop is to initiate a restorative sense of grounding and belonging. Through collective making we will activate a space of multi-vocal wisdom and hope that can be threaded into our daily lives after the event. \nWe will also share grounding and aftercare resources. \nNOTE: We will be sharing reflections and our knowledge. Bring readings\, definitions and objects to share with the group\, on what “home” and community mean to you. \nMaterials and refreshments will be provided. \nFree workshop. Sing up HERE! \nImage credit: Kim Chin. \nAbout the Artist: \nKim Chin (she\, they) is an artist and community mobiliser. Through creative learning and social engagement practices\, Kim amplifies transnational and intersectional East and Southeast Asian narratives as part of\, and in relation to\, wider British narratives. \n\n\n\n\n\nKim co-founded ESEA unseen with Sue Man in 2023 – an art-making\, curating\, and cultural producing duo who leverage textiles\, hospitality\, dialogue\, and neurodiverse adaptations to transform unawareness & trauma into a site for connection and collective agency. \nProjects have been showcased in collaboration with various art\, cultural\, and community advocacy organisations in England and the Philippines. \n\nProject Credit x Paradise Row\, a hybrid event cohosted in England | Germany | Trinidad | Cayman Islands\, Fondation Gallery\, Philippines\, and in London; Migration Museum\, Coin Street Community Builders\, Camden Chinese Community Centre\, Kakilang Arts\, Greenpeace\, Southbank\, and the Museum of the Home.
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/threading-layers-of-home-by-kim-chin/
LOCATION:Yorkton Workshops\, 1-3 Yorkton St\, London\, London\, E2 8NH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Community & Participation,London Refugee Week,Mental Health
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240620T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240620T163000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20240530T120958Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240709T144534Z
UID:10000423-1718892000-1718901000@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Greengross Global Arts 4 Brain Health Change Makers REFUGEE Conversation
DESCRIPTION:There are 110 million people around the world who have been forcibly displaced as a result of persecution\, conflict\, violence\, human rights violations or events seriously disturbing public order\, according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Of these\, 6.1 million are asylum seekers (having applied for asylum awaiting decision as to whether they will be granted refugee status) and 36.4 million are living as refugees. Some 404\,000 refugees returned to their countries of origin during the first half of 2023 while 59\,500 were resettled. From the war in Ukraine to ongoing conflict in Syria\, the Middle East\, to climate shocks and economic turmoil in East Africa and Latin America—global instability is increasing. \nTo address the trauma of displacement\, torture\, prevent retraumatisation on entry into even a safe but strange new country\, a remarkable range of organisations offer care and rehabilitative support. Working in temporary hotel accommodation\, day centres\, detention camps\, and with trauma-informed training\, artists and arts therapists are encouraging refugees to connect\, express themselves through participatory arts so as to preserve their heritage and gradually rebuild their brain health and a new sense of belonging. \nWho for? \nIf you are involved with arts practice for refugees\, or if you teach\, study or work in the fields neuroscience\, psychology\, psychiatry involving arts to preserve brain health\, and social prescribing to enable people to access inspirational cultural and creative opportunities to preserve their brain health\, identity and confidence among their new communities. \nA G E N D A (Online: 14.00 – 16.30 BST) \nHOST: Veronica Franklin Gould\, President\, Arts 4 Dementia. \nCHAIR : Alexandra Coulter\, Director\, National Centre for Creative Health. \nChristopher Bailey\, Arts and Health Lead\, World Health Organisation. \nProfessor Cornelius Katona Medical and Research Director of the Helen Bamber Foundation. Royal College of Psychiatrists lead on Refugee and Asylum Mental Health. \nAlmir Koldzic\, Director and Co-Founder\, Counterpoints Arts ‘Creatively Minded and Refugees’ \nPANEL Chair: Professor Cornelius Katona \n\nDaniela Nofal\, Counterpoints Arts – Network\nBobby Lloyd\, Art Refuge\, Community Table\nSheila Hayman\, Freedom from Torture\, ‘Write to Life’\n\nPANEL Chair: Professor Rachel Tribe\, Professor of Applied Psychology at the University of East London \n\nSara Green\, Founder & Executive Director\, Art for Refugees in Transition\, New York.\nDr Hanan Khalil\, Associate Professor of Neurological Rehabilitation at Qatar University. Physical therapy for refugees in Qatar\nLis Murphy\, Creative Director and Ramsey Janini\, Creative Producer\, Music Action International\, Crisis Choirs led by refugee musicians for new arrivals at drop-in centres.\n\nPANEL Chair: Professor Rachel Tribe\, Professor of Applied Psychology at the University of East London \n\nJohanne Hudson-Lett\, Artistic Director\, Hear Me Out\n\n\nPhoebe Shaw\, Communities Programme Manager\, Untold Stories Project\, Artcore\, Derby.\n\n\nKunle Adewale\, Creative technology for refugees in Bosnia\, Ireland and Sheffield\n\nPROJEKT EUROPA Chair: Alexandra Coulter\, Director\, National Centre for Creative Health \n\nMaria Aberg\, Artistic Director\, Projekt Europa.\nProjekt Encounter: Dr Angeliki Varakis-Martin\, Lecturer in Drama and Theatre\, University of Kent\nProjekt Encounter: Dr Francisca Stangel and Tom Tegento\, drama for refugees workshop facilitators.\n\nRSVP your free place to attend here.
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/greengross-global-arts-4-brain-health-change-makers-refugee-conversation/
LOCATION:London
CATEGORIES:Learning,Mental Health
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240618T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240618T140000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20240605T134029Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240709T144535Z
UID:10000438-1718712000-1718719200@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Hope as Discipline: Ritualising Collective Liberation
DESCRIPTION:How do we hold onto hope in dark times? Join us as we gather with Dr Aditi Jaganathan to moor ourselves in possibilities of hope as we organise for collective liberation\n  \nAs babylon crumbles; its architectures of oppression fall\, in Gaza\, in Haiti\, in Sudan\, in the Congo\, in the heart of empire. In this brokenness\,  spirit speaks; spirit calls on us to reach into otherwise possibilities\, otherwise ways of being in the fold of our collective being. \nWe gather as an offering of refusal\, refusing the structures which refuse our complex personhood\, refusing the suppression of rhythms of liberation. Leaning into this spirit of refusal we figure out ways to relinquish control and lean into our shared vulnerability; to orbit around ways of being moored in possibilities of hope. It is in the matter of being together\, as ritual\, that our tethering to hope as possibility emerges.  \nThis event invites organisers\, cultural workers\, creatives as well as dreamers and schemers who are affected by the passing of the Rwanda Bill and are organising in the wake of ongoing violence\, whether that be in the UK or beyond. We hope that by gathering we can thread together our interconnected struggles and hold space to resource ourselves through ritual and by centering our collective liberation. \n  \nDr Aditi Jaganathan is a thinker and creator\, writer and dreamer. \nHaving worked at the intersections of law\, culture and politics in various capacities\, Aditi is motivated by a politics of refusal\, living in rupture as rapture; turning away from hegemonic worlds of oppression and tuning into something different\, beyond the world we live in and moving to the rhythms of an elsewhere. It is this compulsion which guides her pedagogy in the education work she does. Riffing off education for liberation\, she creates spaces of  (un)learning as a site of radical praxis\, using tools of music\, film and visual culture\, to unpack the ways in which ideologies of oppression and liberation travel through cultural production. She teaches her own course\, Rhythm\, Race\, Revolution as well as courses at different London-based academic institutions. \nWith a particular interest in creativity as decolonial praxis\, she situates the imagination as a radical site of refusal and resistance. Her research work examines the different ways in which Black and Brown cultural production has activated autonomous modes of meaning-making and self-determination in London\, through contesting racialised norms and (re)imagining racialised postcolonial subjectivities. And it is through an ethic of jazz that Aditi curates this work. \nReserve your free spot for this session here. \nImage Credits © Carmel King
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/hope-as-discipline-ritualising-collective-liberation/
LOCATION:Yorkton Workshops\, 1-3 Yorkton St\, London\, London\, E2 8NH\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Community & Participation,London Refugee Week,Mental Health
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240613T103000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240613T170000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20240605T160533Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240709T144535Z
UID:10000439-1718274600-1718298000@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:“My Home\, My Voice” – Post Detention Support Conference 2024
DESCRIPTION:Samphire’s Post Detention Support Conference 2024 is on the 13th of June\, and this year\, we are taking part!\n\nArt and creativity can positively contribute to improving our mental health and wellbeing. From having fun and accessing joy\, art can also help foster greater resilience\, increase confidence and create a sense of community and belonging. \nAlongside artist and theatre maker Debora Minà\, we will be co-facilitating a workshop titled ‘Play & Imagination: How creativity can support our wellbeing’ for members from Samphire’s PDSP network. \nThis practical and fun workshop\, offers the chance to try out some creative exercises to access your creative voice and to share your reflections. It is also an opportunity to find out more about our latest report titled\, ‘Creatively Minded and Refugees – Arts\, refugees and mental health’. \nYou can find out more about the conference here.
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/my-home-my-voice-post-detention-support-conference-2024/
LOCATION:London
CATEGORIES:Community & Participation,Mental Health
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240522T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240522T143000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
CREATED:20240425T103812Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240709T144535Z
UID:10000413-1716382800-1716388200@counterpoints.org.uk
SUMMARY:Assemblages of Sanctuary: Art\, Displacement & Mental Health
DESCRIPTION:Join us for this online panel to reflect on the role that art can play in having a positive impact on the wellbeing and mental health of sanctuary seekers when working in creative settings.\n  \nAs part of this year’s Creativity and Wellbeing Week\, we are pleased to invite Thahmina Begum\, Dana Olărescu\, Amanda Camenisch and Therese Westin\, along with project participant Frieda N. Coleman\, to speak about their socially engaged artistic practices and to reflect on their experiences running arts-based projects with refugees and asylum seekers. \nCreative spaces of sanctuary are vibrant assemblages where artists and communities with lived experience of forced displacement come together to co-create dynamic spaces that embody an expansive sense of hope and possibility. \nIn this online panel conversation\, we ask – what role can art play to hold spaces that foster a sense of safety and promote wellbeing for refugees and people navigating the asylum system? How do they as creative practitioners navigate the hostile systems and structures that are detrimental to the wellbeing and mental health of sanctuary seekers? What kind of support structures can they put in place to look after their own wellbeing when working with communities confronted by vulnerability? And how can their experiences open up a critical space for learning and reflection for others with an interest in working in this space? \nThe online panel will last approximately 1.5 hours\, including space for questions or reflections. \nThe webinar will take place on Zoom and a meeting link will be sent to attendees in advance. Closed captioning will be available. \nThis conversation is part of Counterpoints Arts’ two-year programme focussing on mental health\, displacement and the arts running across 2024 & 2025\, and is generously supported by The Baring Foundation. \n  \nBook your free ticket here. \n  \nMeet the Speakers\nDana Olărescu\nDana Olărescu is a socially engaged artist with a focus on challenging minority exclusion and environmental injustice. Through participatory methodologies that democratise access to art and knowledge\, she aims to give agency to underserved migrant groups and people habitually excluded from decision-making processes\, so they can become active co-producers of culture. \nHer projects have been supported by\, among others\, the Arts Council\, Counterpoints Arts\, UCL Culture\, Invisible Dust\, and Urban Wilderness\, and presented at institutions in the UK and abroad\, including Tate Modern\, the London Short Film Festival\, the Low Carbon Design Institute\, Art Gene\, x-church\, ArtHouse Jersey\, Art Walk Projects\, Incheon Art Platform (South Korea)\, and La Virgule (France). \n  \nThahmina Begum\nThahmina Begum lives and works in Leeds\, Yorkshire. She is an Interdisciplinary Artist\, Poet\, and Workshop Facilitator. Begum has exhibited internationally\, nationally\, and hyper locally. Begum is a qualified and registered Art Psychotherapist (HCPC\, BATT). Her work explores cultures\, identities\, belonging and British /Bangladeshi/Muslim Diaspora. Begum’s work explores stories\, hidden narratives and storytelling through art and art making. Begum is passionate about making Art accessible for all sections of society and the promotion of art to improve our health and wellbeing. She love’s how Art can gives voices to communities/people that have been silenced. \nBegum’s work ranges from printmaking\, collage\, embroidery\, painting\, drawing\, poetry\, and creative conversations. She love’s working with Communities and groups to support and ease their ideas around art and what it means to them. She attended Leeds Arts University. \nBegum’s recent work/commissions include working with British Library (Food without Borders 2021-22)\,(Community History Project 2021) (Get Creative 2022-203) (Mapping Our Better Life\, 2024) (Our Stories\, our lives – Migration Stories\, Treasures Gallery\, London St Pancras\,2024) Leeds Art Gallery (Advisory Panel) (Shifting Perspectives and Conversation Table\, 2022) Yorkshire Sculpture Park (Concert for Bangladesh\,2021)\, (Walk a mile in my shoes\, 2022) Tetley Gallery (The Colour Pallette\,2021)\, LEEDS 2023 (Sarees and Street signs 2021 -22) and Yorkshire Sculpture International (Sylhet in my Suitcase\,2021 -22) Tara Theatre/British Council/Britto Arts Trust (Artist Make Spaces) (International Commission) Runnemede Trust -Artist in Residence (Racial Equality and Migrants Summit 2022) Commonwealth Theatre\, Bradford (Off the Curriculum\,2023) Woven in Kirklees (Dewsbury Fashion Show) University of Leeds and East Street Art –Cultural Institute (Creative Labs\, 2023). \n  \nAmanda Camenisch and Therese Westin\nAmanda Camenisch and Therese Westin\, London-based artists and wellbeing practitioners\, create immersive experiences through installation\, sculpture\, sound\, and performance art. They facilitate both individual and collective experiences\, often involving participation in workshops\, concerts\, and performances. Drawing from their background in wellbeing\, they craft meditative sculptural landscapes\, inviting participants to engage in sacred practices and fostering spaces for active imagination and play. \nTheir collaborative projects focus on activation and regeneration\, prioritizing the experiences of participants through a trauma-informed approach. Notable projects include a commission by The Brent Biennial to work with women from a local shelter\, resulting in sculptures exhibited at the Metroland Gallery and permanently installed at the shelter. They are currently completing a 14-month collaborative project supported by Arts Council England\, involving refugee centers and a women’s shelter\, with outcomes including exhibitions\, ceremonies\, and mentorship programs. Their performance project\, “A Home Is A Cloud\,” explores embodied experiences of trauma and displacement\, aiming to build strategies of home-making through community building and healing practices. \nSelected partnerships\, workshops and lectures: SPACE Ilford (London)\, The Museum of Home (London)\, University of Chicago (USA)\, CSM London\, and Universität der Künste Berlin\, Arts Council England\, Melissa Network (GR)\, Hackney Migrant Centre\, Marylebone project\, Jesuit Refugee Services\, Asian Women Resource Centre\, Metroland\, Arts and Health Hub\, Counterpoints Art\, Communitas (GR)\, House of Annetta Therese and Amanda have been awarded the Community Engagement Artist Award in 2021 and in 2023\, Arts Council England Project Grant 2021 & 2022. \n  \nFreida N. Coleman\nFreida N. Coleman\, born in Hopkins\, Belize\, is a long-term participant in projects facilitated by Amanda and Therese. She is a Garifuna woman who came to England in 2019. As a mother of twin girls\, she draws strength from her indigenous roots and traditions\, instilling in her children a deep connection to their heritage. Freida’s journey in London has been one of resilience and self-discovery\, navigating challenges such as postpartum depression and cultural displacement.\n\nHer quest for healing led her to explore meditation and holistic practices\, seeking solace in community support networks. Through emotional health classes and music-based meditation sessions\, Freida found empowerment and a sense of belonging. Inspired by the transformative power of sound and movement\, she embraced new experiences\, including the Lyra Project facilitated by Amanda and Therese.\n\nFreida’s involvement in the mentorship program facilitated by Amanda and Therese further deepened her understanding of meditation and self-care\, equipping her with valuable skills to guide others on their healing journey. With gratitude for her mentors and fellow participants\, Freida embraces the endless possibilities for growth and connection that lie ahead. \n  \nPhoto Credits – Amanda Camenisch and Therese Westin ©
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/assemblages-of-sanctuary-art-displacement-mental-health/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Community & Participation,Mental Health
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SUMMARY:'Arts\, Refugees and Mental Health' Roundtable
DESCRIPTION:A free online roundtable\, designed and delivered by Counterpoints Arts\, exploring the arts\, refugees and mental health.\nFree registration \nFlourishing Lives and the Anti-Racist Action Group in Arts & Wellbeing invite you to our latest free online workshop exploring anti-racist action and inclusive practice in arts & wellbeing services. \nWe are delighted to be working in partnership with Counterpoints Arts on this roundtable and are immensely grateful to Tom Green\, Daniela Nofal and Lara Deffense from Counterpoints for designing and facilitating the session. \nIn this session we will: \n\nHear insights from people about their lived experience of seeking asylum in the UK\nExplore the arts\, refugees and mental health\nShare case studies that include a range of different approaches\nConsider some of the common themes that emerge\nSet out some of the challenges and opportunities in this work\nShare reflections and connections to your work\nExplore anti-racist actions that you can implement in your work\n\nJoin us to share ideas and advocate for inclusive practice and anti-racist action across the arts and wellbeing sector. \nAbout The Anti-Racist Action Group in Arts & Wellbeing: \nThe Anti-Racist Action Group in Arts & Wellbeing is a group of representatives from arts\, wellbeing and race equality charities – including Flourishing Lives\, HEAR Network\, Race Equality Foundation\, Decolonising the Archive\, and Southwark Culture Health and Wellbeing Partnership – who partner with ethnically and culturally diverse organisations\, facilitators\, community groups\, participants and people to share their knowledge\, expertise\, learning and lived experience to support the wider arts and wellbeing sector to explore anti-racist action\, and develop wider engagement in the arts and mental health. The aim is to facilitate conversations\, deepen understanding and identify opportunities for change. \nThis discussion is part of an ongoing series of workshops and roundtables kindly funded by The National Lottery Community Fund which will support Flourishing Lives and the Anti-Racist Action Group to explore a range of topics\, issues and anti-racist actions over the next 2 years to help advocate for inclusive practice across the arts and wellbeing sector.
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/arts-refugees-and-mental-health-roundtable/
LOCATION:London
CATEGORIES:Learning,Mental Health
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DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20231127T170000
DTSTAMP:20260502T045910
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SUMMARY:London Creative Health City: Building It Together
DESCRIPTION:Counterpoints is delighted to be one of the contributors to an event produced by London Arts and Health where we will share the findings from our recent report Arts\, Refugees and Mental Health. \nEvent text: \nCulture has a significant impact on people’s physical and mental health and wellbeing. Through a multitude of organisations\, practitioners\, artists\, creative health workers\, social prescribers\, allied health professionals\, ICS systems and more we see health and culture working together to address health needs across the UK’s capital city. \nHowever\, for too many Londoners these activities are out of reach. \nOn the 27th November we invite everyone interested in the intersections of health and culture to come together to take part in a day of exchange and reflection\, boundary pushing and action planning. Together\, we will imagine London as a Creative Health capital city\, laying the building blocks to see it become reality. \nAn initiative developed and funded by the Mayor of London and Arts Council England\, delivered in partnership with London Arts and Health. \nFull details and booking
URL:https://counterpoints.org.uk/event/london-creative-health-city-building-it-together/
LOCATION:London
CATEGORIES:Learning,Mental Health
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