A new creative initiative has launched in Birmingham this week, designed to develop creativity STEM activity for young people in the area and inspire the next generation of local inventors, artists, and innovators.
The new DCMS and lottery funded program, Creative Spaces, opened its doors at The Pump in Kitts Green on Thursday 26 May, showcasing a series of new workshop spaces for creative, design, art and technology tools, including state-of- the-art 3D printers.
The official launch saw a host of VIP guests attend to experience the facilities on offer, including Councillors Mike Ward, Marje Bridle and John Cotton, and Birmingham City Council Head of Commercialism, Ken Lyon.
Students from Timberley Academy were given the opportunity to take part in a number of creative workshops on the day, including 3D and textile printing, green screen photography, jewellery making, laser cutting and music production.
The facilities, which are split into three creative zones, Music Space, Levi’s Media Space and Makerspace, are designed to inspire young people to take part in creative initiatives to help build pathways to employment for future generations.
As well as experiencing the workshops, participants had the opportunity to meet special guest, Kezia Soul, a Birmingham-based jazz, soul and funk singer who cut the ribbon to mark the official launch of Creative Spaces at The Pump.
Charlotte Linforth, project director at The Pump, said:
“The Pump has been a lynchpin for local youth projects for over 10 years now, so we are thrilled to announce the official launch of the new Creative Spaces at the centre.
“Many young people in the area don’t have access to facilities or equipment to engage in creative pursuits and hobbies, so the new spaces will help provide opportunities for them to broaden horizons, raise aspirations and develop key skills for the future.
“The launch event was a great success and we’re delighted to have the continued support of local VIPs including the talented Kezia Soul, who has agreed to an ongoing programme to help develop and nurture local talent.
“We look forward to welcoming many more young people from all across the city, to get involved in new activities and experience the joy of bringing their creative ideas to life.”
Creative Spaces is now offering workshops for local schools and youth groups across Birmingham and the surrounding areas.
To find out more about Creative Spaces at The Pump, or to book a session in one of the workshops, email creativespaces@thepump.org.uk
