Local museum creates bespoke arts and crafts boxes to help low income families

Published: Thursday 15 April 2021

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Leighton House, the West London home and studio of Victorian artist Frederic, Lord Leighton (1830 – 1896), launched Time for Art, a new project to gift ‘creativity boxes’ to local children and young people living in disadvantaged households.

In March, a total of 250 ‘creativity boxes’ were distributed to local children and young people in need via the Council’s Family Services team and West London Zone. The boxes were designed as unique gifts, branded with colourful ribbons and inspired by art found at Leighton House.

The boxes have engaging arts activities curated by the Museum’s Learning Department in collaboration with celebrated contemporary artists Laurelie Rae and Ayesha Gamiet. The selection of arts materials in the boxes including paints, brushes, paper and more was donated by Winsor & Newton.

Since the outbreak of Covid-19, there has been a big impact on the mental health and wellbeing of children, especially for those unable to access digital technology and online learning and creative resources. In recognition of these challenges, the team at Leighton House developed Time for Art.

Producing beautifully designed arts and crafts boxes, the Museum has been able to support families and young people with limited financial resources. Children and young people have been inspired while also receiving a boost to their mental health through the variety of creative activities.

Charlotte Villiers, Learning Officer at Leighton House says:

“The past few months have been incredibly challenging for many children and young people in the borough. The beautiful Time for Art boxes will help them explore, experiment, learn and express themselves through creativity. Frederic Leighton was a fervent advocate of the arts and offered mentoring and support to young artists – a legacy that we are proud to continue today thanks to this new initiative.”

Time for Art is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, The Friends of Leighton House and City Bridge Trust and generously supported by Winsor & Newton.