Independent Arts runs around 25 creative workshops each week, supporting the wellbeing of people of all ages.

More than half take place at our Creative Hub in Newport High Street, others in various community settings around the Island.

Download our latest What’s on Guide for our weekly community based programmes here.

Creative Hub weekly workshops

Workshops for young people & families

Creative Workshops

Music & Movement Workshops

Even if you’re not taking part in one of our weekly art, mindfulness or singing sessions, it’s always worth popping into our Creative Hub to see the wonderful and diverse exhibitions of participants’ work – and look out for our one-off events and workshops; there could be something just right for you, or someone you know.

Exhibitions

  • 2024 Exhibition Celebrating Age and Creativity – Back by Popular Demand!

    It’s never too late to embrace creativity or discover your voice. Independent Arts, a Newport-based charity for arts and wellbeing, is proud to host a vibrant new exhibition that celebrates the creative achievements of Isle of Wight care home residents. The exhibition showcases an inspiring collection of artwork, including collages, watercolours, printing, textiles, and mini sculptures. Residents from Island Care Homes created these pieces in collaboration with talented freelance artist practitioners. In addition to the visual art on display, the exhibition highlights other creative workshops taking place across the Island, such as energizing music and movement sessions. Independent Arts, said: “This exhibition is a wonderful celebration of creativity and connection. It’s incredible to see the joy and sense of achievement that these workshops bring to residents. The artwork on display reflects not just their artistic talent but also the enthusiasm and resilience they bring to every session. It’s a privilege to showcase their work and highlight the profound impact the arts can have on wellbeing.” Engaging in creative activities is especially meaningful for care home residents, many of whom live with physical or mental health conditions such as dementia. Research shows that artistic activities can enhance mental and physical wellbeing, with creative expression offering a powerful way to communicate, connect, and provide respite from anxiety. The exhibition is free to the public and runs until Friday, 24th January. It is open Monday to Friday from 10 AM to 4:30 PM (excluding the Christmas closure from 20th December to 3rd January). Visit us at Independent Arts, 48 High Street, Newport. For more information about our work, please visit www.independentarts.org.uk or drop by the Creative Hub.

  • Textiles Retrospective Exhibition: Celebrating a Tapestry of Community and Creativity

    Since 2017, Independent Arts has been dedicated to exploring the rich potential of textiles through a wide range of projects and programmes. Our latest exhibition, Textiles Retrospective, brings together years of creative collaboration, showcasing a vibrant body of work that reflects our commitment to participatory art and community building. A Journey Through Collaborative CreationTextiles have played a pivotal role in our artistic journey, allowing us to experiment with various mediums and techniques. The works on display include large-scale collaborative pieces—quilted banners, intricate weavings, and inventive experiments with screen printing, fabric dyeing, staining, and block printing. We’ve even incorporated sewing machine stitching into works on paper, inspired by recent map-making workshops run with home-educating families. This diverse approach highlights not only the versatility of textiles as a medium but also the powerful impact of shared creative endeavours. Art for All Ages and SpacesOne of the most inspiring aspects of our textiles journey is the inclusivity it fosters. The exhibition features creations made by participants ranging from young teens to those in their later years, underlining the universal appeal of creative expression. Beyond the walls of the Creative Hub, our large-scale textile works can also be found at Osborne House and in Island schools, reinforcing our belief that art has the power to connect communities across different generations and settings. Learning, Sharing, and Growing TogetherOver the past seven years, we have learned a great deal from our participants. Their willingness to bring their own specialist skills to our projects has enriched our collective experience and elevated our work to new heights. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the participants and freelance artists who have joined and led these projects on our behalf. Exhibition DetailsWe invite you to experience this celebration of creativity and community for yourself. The Textiles Retrospective exhibition is open and free to view at the Creative Hub in Newport until 14th March. Whether you’re an avid art lover or simply curious about the transformative power of collaborative art, we welcome you to join us in exploring these inspiring works. Independent Arts continues to believe in the transformative impact of participatory art. We look forward to welcoming you to the Creative Hub and sharing the story behind these remarkable textile creations.

Events

  • Time to Talk Day Drop-In Session

    Join us on Tuesday, 6th February, from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm at our Creative Hub in Newport for a relaxed and welcoming drop-in session as part of Time to Talk Day. Enjoy a warm cup of tea or coffee, take part in some creative activities, and connect with others in a friendly, supportive environment. Whether you’re popping in for a quick chat or staying to explore your creativity, everyone is welcome. Let’s take some time to talk—because every conversation matters. We’d love to see you there!

  • Island Arts Organisations Unite for The Big Draw Festival 2025

    Independent Arts, Newport Minster and Quay Arts are bringing The Big Draw Festival back to the Isle of Wight, for ‘Drawn to Newport’, so pitch up and dive in to the raft of events and workshops running Saturday 23rd August to Saturday 30th August across all three sites to celebrate the power of drawing and to bring people together for shared creative expression. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the world’s biggest drawing festival. Since 2000, The Big Draw Festival has taken place annually across over 35 countries, involving thousands of events and encouraging over four million people back to the drawing board. Arts education charity, The Big Draw, which is the founder and driving force behind the festival, believes that everyone can draw. They promote drawing as a universal language that has the power to change lives and unite people of any age, background, race, or religion from around the globe. Bringing the festival to the Isle of Wight in this milestone year, the three organisations are coming together to celebrate the 2025 festival theme, ‘Drawn Together,’ which highlights the power of drawing to connect people and build communities. This programme has been made possible thanks to the support of the Newport Business Association. Their funding has helped bring these creative opportunities into the heart of the town, encouraging local people and visitors alike to engage in the joy of drawing. With a full family friendly programme being offered by all, there will be opportunities to join in with sketching trails, doodle walls, and even drawing with sewing machines! Drop in to the free drawing studio at the Quay, visit the drawing and colouring station at the Minster, and try your hand drawing a portrait through the window glass at Independent Arts. The Big Draw is an amazing opportunity for anyone, of any age to take part. Matilda Barratt, director of The Big Draw says: “For a quarter of a century, The Big Draw has championed drawing as a tool for communication, expression, and understanding – helping individuals and communities come together and connect. “Drawing is a universal language that transcends barriers, bringing us closer and enabling us to communicate in ways that words cannot. ‘Drawn Together’ serves as a reminder that the simple act of making a mark can build bridges, forge bonds, and create shared experiences.” Events will be running from Saturday 23rd to Saturday 30th August at all three sites. Please drop in to Independent Arts, Newport Minster or Quay Arts to pick up a programme, or call (see below) for details. Independent Arts, 48-49 High Street, Newport (01983 822437) www.independentarts.org.uk Quay Arts, 15 Sea St, Newport PO30 5BD (01983 822490) www.quayarts.org.uk The Newport Minster, St Thomas’s Square, Newport (01983 821961) www.newportminster.org.uk  

  • Double Your Impact with Independent Arts’ Big Give Christmas Challenge

    Double Your Impact This Christmas: Support Independent Arts to Inspire Creativity, Connection, and Confidence Across Generations on the Isle of Wight Independent Arts, the Island-based creative health charity, is thrilled to announce its participation in The Big Give’s Christmas Challenge 2024, with an ambitious target to raise £4,000 in just one week! The campaign kicks off at 12 noon on Giving Tuesday, 3rd December, and provides a unique opportunity for supporters to double their impact. Thanks to the generosity of ShareGift, all donations made during the campaign will be matched pound for pound, doubling their value and making twice the difference. This year, Independent Arts is proud to highlight the intergenerational nature of its work, offering a range of workshops and creative programs for Islanders of all ages. Whether it's art, music, movement, or community projects, the charity’s sessions bring people together, building confidence, connection, and creativity across generations. Matt Hitt, Community Development Manager, said: “As a charity, our focus is on reducing social isolation and improving the wellbeing of Islanders of all ages. This year, we’re aiming to unlock £4,000 in match funding, raising an incredible £8,000 to support creative arts programs that bring people together, inspiring connection and joy. Every donation during the Christmas Challenge will help us reach more people across the Island, making a real difference in their lives.” A Mindful Moment Participant shared how transformative these programs can be: "I like learning and having the opportunity to try different activities, but also the social side. It's a reason to get up, get dressed and get myself out of the house. I hope the hub stays and that I can continue coming here, I'd definitely take steps back without it." Funds raised will sustain vital projects both at The Creative Hub and in the community, helping to combat loneliness and support vulnerable Islanders through regular arts sessions. These sessions are proven to improve mental health, offering a lifeline to people who may otherwise feel isolated or alone. The campaign runs for just seven days, from 12 noon on 3rd December to 12 noon on 10th December, and every donation counts. The charity has already secured £4,000 in pledges from ShareGift, but this funding can only be unlocked if donations are made during the campaign. How to Donate: To make your donation and double your impact, visit www.donate.biggive.org/campaign/a056900002TPTJmAAP during the campaign period. Help Them Spread the Word: If you’re unable to donate, you can still make a huge difference by sharing the campaign with your friends, family, and networks. The more people they reach, the closer they get to unlocking vital match funding and supporting even more people on the Isle of Wight. Your support will help Independent Arts to continue transforming lives through creativity. Together, we can make a difference this Christmas. Double you donation

  • Sweet Charity

    The Wight Strollers are back at Medina Theatre this July, and ready to transport you back to 1960s New York with the tale of Charity Hope Valentine... Sweet Charity is a funny, feel-good musical, packed with well-known songs like ‘Big Spender’, ‘If My Friends Could See Me Now’ and ‘Rhythm Of Life’. With the team that brought you Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and Priscilla: Queen of the Desert at the helm, a live 9-piece band, colourful costumes and striking set, and an exceptional cast, Sweet Charity promises to be uplifting and unforgettable. The show runs from July 12th – 14th, tickets are £18 for adults, £14 for Under-16s, and there is an excellent group rate of £14 per ticket for groups of 10+ people. Tickets are available from www.medinatheatre.co.uk, by phoning 01983 823884, or in person from Medina’s 1Leisure Reception or the Medina Theatre Box Office. Best of all, the proceeds are going to Island charities and good causes, and for this show the Strollers are delighted to announce that one of the beneficiaries will be Independent Arts! The Wight Strollers are renowned for their pantomimes, musicals, carnival appearances and charity donations, having given away £200,000 – including fourteen Public Access Defibrillators – over the last 44 years. So gather your friends and families, and help raise money for Island charities with Sweet Charity!

  • Exploring the Cosmos: Wavelength Exhibition Showcases Student Artwork at Creative Hub

    We are excited to announce the launch of the Wavelength Exhibition at the Creative Hub, showcasing the incredible artwork created by talented students from the Island Learning Centre and St Helens Primary School on the Isle of Wight. This project, which has been running since September 2022, explores the intersection of art, creativity, and science through a series of engaging workshops. Both schools chose space and the cosmos as their science topics. The Island Learning Centre further integrated this theme into their science curriculum by linking their study of the visible light spectrum to the cosmic dawn event and the journey of light through space. The workshops employed a variety of art forms and mediums, enriching the learning experience, particularly for students who find traditional methods challenging. This approach not only fostered creativity but also deepened their understanding of complex scientific concepts. The Wavelength Exhibition is free to view and will be open at the Creative Hub until June 14th. We invite everyone to visit and witness the stunning pieces created by these young artists. Exhibition Details: Location: Independent Arts, 48 High Street, Newport Opening Hours: 10am - 4:30pm, Monday to Friday We extend our heartfelt thanks to The Swire Charitable Trust for their generous support in funding this project. Don't miss this unique opportunity to experience the blend of art and science through the eyes of our island's youth!

  • New Celebrating Spring Exhibition at Independent Arts

    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].

  • ‘Infinite Skies’ a beautiful homage to brighten your day and lift your mood

    Embark on a visual journey with the latest exhibition, a stunning multi-media collection crafted by participants during 2023 workshops at Independent Arts Creative Hub. Drawing inspiration from Constable's profound fascination with the ever-changing skies, this exhibition captures the diverse moods and poetry of the celestial canvas. Independent Arts is a small island-based creative health charity. From their Creative Hub on Newport High Street, the charity offers a wide range of projects aimed at supporting those with complex vulnerabilities to benefit from arts based activities and companionship through mutual creativity. During 2023, the charity helped to facilitate the visit of John Constable’s ‘The Cornfield’ (1826) original painting to Newport, where it was displayed for 6 days by The National Gallery at Newport & Carisbrooke Community Council’s building at 64 High Street. More than 2,500 residents saw the iconic painting during the week in May and Independent Arts were part of the official community engagement process that followed. The visit certainly inspired a lot of creativity and as a result Independent Arts have curated Infinite Skies to showcase the response and has drawn influences of other artists too, such as Olafur Eliasson’s The Weather Project (2003) exhibited at the Tate’s Turbine Hall. Art work and poetry is displayed showcasing creativity thriving from young and old alike on the Isle of Wight. Regular participants from Creative Café, Mindful Moments and Sandown Art Club have their artwork on display. Supported by professional artists Trudie Wilson, Lou Elliot and the charity’s talented in-house team Joanne Rigby, Kerry Tindall and Evie Clarke and volunteer artist Melissa Penn, the exhibition has been lovingly created from a mixture of mediums. ‘Infinite Skies’ will be on show until Friday 23rd February. Entry is free, and you're invited to experience the exhibition's magic at Independent Arts, The Creative Hub, 48 High Street, Newport, from Monday to Friday, 10:00 - 4:30 pm. Donations, whatever you can spare, helps the charity to do more to support vulnerable residents through arts based activities.

  • Care home residents showcase their artwork in collaborative exhibition

    Creative Health charity Independent Arts is celebrating age this Autumn with a special mixed media art exhibition created by residents from 13 care homes across the Island during the past year. On display are works inspired by Monet’s ‘Waterlilies’, Matisse, painted seascapes, a sensory garden, along with modern sculpture, photographs, textiles, ceramics, and mosaics. The unique exhibition was curated by the charity’s team Nicola Ward, Kerry Tindall and Jo Rigby to showcase the amazing talent of both residents and the dedication of professional arts practitioners who supported them, Kirstie Hayler, Lou Elliott, Miranda Amapola and Davina Smith. “Last time we displayed art created by care home residents everyone was hugely inspired and this time our elders have done it again!” says chief executive Lisa Gagliani. “It’s simply amazing how taking part in some form of creative activity can unlock hidden talent - along with happy memories. We can all learn something from this this poignant reflection of creative ageing.” Independent Arts delivers music and crafts to more than 30 care homes across the Isle of Wight. Called ‘Workshops for Wellbeing’ these paid-for workshops are more than simply entertaining activities for elderly residents, with a focus on wellbeing and reminiscence of happy memories. In the past year alone 10,600 care home residents enjoyed one or more activities delivered by Independent Arts through their 20 highly skilled and vetted professional arts practitioners. The Island-only charity also offers bespoke one to one art workshops to residents who are elderly, have dementia or to adults with learning difficulties. Anyone can visit the Exhibition, which is open Monday to Friday 10am-4.30pm and on Saturdays 12-2pm at Independent Arts Creative Hub, 48/49 High Street, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 1SE. Entrance is free, but donations are very much appreciated by cash, debit card or monthly standing order. For more information about the services Independent Arts provides to Island care homes, visit www.independentarts.org.uk/join-in/for-carehomes/

  • Lake Coffee House Fundraising Quiz: 5th August

    Lake Coffee House Fundraising Quiz: 5th August – Lake Coffee House kindly hosting a Saturday evening quiz to raise funds for Independent Arts. Please contact the venue directly for details and to book a team. 01983 211151

  • Wight Proms: 11th – 20th August

    Independent Arts are delighted to once again be the associated charity of Wight Proms festival, taking place at Northwood House. We will be on site every day with merchandise, creative activities, and raffles. For more information and tickets please visit www.wightproms.co.uk 

  • Ventnor Fringe: 21st – 30th July

    Ventnor Fringe: 21st – 30th July: Art in the park! – Join Independent Arts in the park at Ventnor Fringe to sketch and draw our brand new installation from all angles! Discover the hidden themes of the installation, explore the work, and sketch-what-you-see to add to our live exhibition throughout the festival. All materials provided for donation to Independent Arts. Suitable for all ages from 4 – 104. For more info visit ventnor fringe website.

  • Carehome Exhibition

    4th October - 26th November. An exciting and diverse exhibition of work created in residential settings.

  • Wavelength 2

    9th August - 30th September Finding the art in science with island schools.

  • Mindful Moments Exhibition

    July 5th - August 6th Join us for an interactive and immersive experience as we share our explorations of mindfulness and creativity. This multimedia exhibition will share works created through a diverse range of processes, from sculpture to film.

  • Supporting Young Minds: 2nd March – 1st April

    Place-changing artwork created and directed by young people

  • Supporting wellbeing through creativity: Tues 14th March 1.30-4.30pm

    CPD for Isle of Wight mental health workers, youth professionals, teachers and school-based support workers

  • ‘Do Something Different’ film premiere

    Friday 3rd February. Screenings at 7.30pm, 8pm and 8.30pm. Book your tickets now to see this thought-provoking film from the Sandown and Lake Youth Forum

  • 12-14-year olds: Rethink Ryde on 14th February!

    A day exploring Ryde through creativity and public art

  • Blue Plaques

    Starts Wednesday 18th January Newport's heritage revealed through cyanotypes

  • An evening of short films

    Friday 10th February Doors open 7.15pm

  • Free CPD event for creatives and outdoor educators

    Learn about evidence-based practice that promotes good mental health and wellbeing for children and young people.

  • Help Independent Arts raise £6,000 in a week to help young people!

    Independent Arts will once again be taking part in #TheBigGive this year! A weeklong fundraising challenge, beginning on Tuesday 29th November, during which everything you donate will be matched and doubled!

  • Christmas Crafternoon: Needle felted tree decorations

    Learn new skills and create something beautiful for Christmas. Friday 25th November, 3.30pm-5pm at our Creative Hub in Newport. £30 per person.

  • Christmas Crafternoon: Everlasting Christmas wreaths

    Learn new skills and create something beautiful for Christmas. Friday 18th November, 3.30pm-5pm at our Creative Hub in Newport. £30 per person.

  • Christmas Crafternoon: Lino print Christmas Cards

    Learn new skills and create something beautiful for Christmas. Friday 11th November, 3.30pm-5pm at our Creative Hub in Newport. £30 per person.

  • Six-week Pencil Drawing Course

    Take some time for yourself with this introductory course to pencil drawing. Tuesdays 8th November -13th December, 6-7.30pm at our Creative Hub in Newport. £110 for six weeks.

  • Creative Biosphere Takeover Day, Saturday 19th November, 10am-3pm

    A fun day of creativity and activism for all ages!

  • The Arts Practitioners’ 35th Celebration – by invitation only – 19th October

     This is our big thank you to our amazing arts practitioners, at The Creative Hub

  • SingAbout Together, Newport Minster, 5th October, 2pm

    Bringing our SingAbout groups together for an afternoon of song and joy

  • Two creative Christmas workshops for September!

    Join us at our Creative Hub this month for two free Christmas workshops on Thursday 22 (1.30-3pm) and Friday 30 September (7-8.30pm).

  • Sleepscapes and Seascapes

    30th November - 14th January | FREE

  • ‘Save my Seat!’ live performances

    3rd & 4th September | FREE

  • Celebrating Age

    3rd October – 26th November | FREE

  • Creative Biosphere Exhibition

    3rd August – 1st October | FREE

  • Wight Proms

    16th – 21st August | £35

  • Creative Biosphere Public Engagement Day

    Saturday 13th August | FREE

  • Creative Cross Currents

    22 June – 31 July | FREE

  • Ventnor Fringe: The Big Draw

    22nd – 31st July | FREE

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