A new exhibition and incredible window displays are about to emerge at Independent Arts Creative Hub at 48 High Street, Newport. The arts for wellbeing charity are well known for their creative displays at the former retail unit, which showcase the outcomes of their projects for the public to see. Conveniently placed on the high street, many passers-by comment on how the windows cheer them up daily. The impact for those who help to make the art works is even greater. Some of the most vulnerable in our community rely on the various creative sessions delivered at the Creative Hub, to socialise, to try something new and to get support for a range of issues. “Themes of growth and regeneration are central to our work in the field of wellbeing, and our belief in promoting the value of self-care throughout the year. Spring can be time for optimism, hope and rebirth, as the natural world around us bursts with new life.” Says Kerry Tindall, Head of Arts at the charity. Participants have explored these themes and ideas through the mediums of painting, collage, sculpture and weaving, creating some beautiful contributions to this exhibition. Creative staff, volunteers and year 6 pupils from Barton Primary School in Newport have also contributed creative responses to celebrate the season of Spring. Participants involved in making the displays include older people through Monday’s Creative Café, adults attending Wellbeing Café on Thursdays, children and adults who attend Tuesdays intergenerational Make and Create sessions, plus pupils from Barton Primary School. The exhibition has been supported and curated with the help of artist volunteer - Melissa Penn, Creative Assistant, Evie Clarke and Principal Projects Artist, Joanne Rigby. This Easter school holidays, Independent Arts are able to offer Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) funded places for young people aged 11-16 years, who are eligible for free school meals. The 4-hour sessions are free and will involve a range of exciting creative activities linked to nature and include a healthy lunch and snacks. Places are limited and filling fast, so if you’d like to book a place on from April 2nd to 12th do call 01983 822437 or email [email protected] After school activities aimed at secondary school pupils/college students who’d welcome support for their mental health and wellbeing whilst learning new skills also have places available on Thursdays – with a wide range of artists leading the sessions. Called ArtsLab, enquiries again to [email protected].