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The Big Issues

This new project underpins Watts Gallery’s community learning programme, providing groups with an opportunity to work with an artist using the ideas and themes of G.F. Watts and the Watts Chapel. During 2008, a series of workshops were delivered working in partnership with HMP Send and women prisoners, Surrey Youth Justice Service and young offenders and Street Level Arts, a homeless group based in Guildford, which includes people with mental health problems and reformed drug users.

Each series of The Big Issues workshops started by introducing members to the work of G.F. Watts and Watts Gallery. G.F. Watts painted a small group of works that address issues such as homelessness, the exploitation of women and poverty. These themes provided an opportunity for participants to explore their issues through art and discussion. A visit to the Watts Chapel provided a very strong visual resource and creative starting point for the Street Level Arts Group. This was followed by an opportunity for participants to paint, draw, sculpt or make photographs based on themes that inspired them, with the support of an artist. Just a few of the images that inspired this project are illustrated on the inside cover and back cover of this publication.

The workshops reached over 35 participants and has had real life changing effects ranging from young offenders re-engaging in education, though to prisoners using the creation of art as a new focus in their lives.

With the creation of new working partnerships through this project, the Gallery has gained a real insight into working with prisoners, young offenders and the homeless.

Helen Hienkens-Lewis
Head of Learning at Watts Gallery