From Volunteering to Community Arts: My Journey So Far

When I first started volunteering with CVS Inverclyde, I never imagined how much it would shape the path I’m on today. What began as lending a helping hand has turned into a real passion for getting involved in creative community projects — the kind that bring people together, spark imagination, and make art accessible to everyone.

Through volunteering, I discovered how powerful creativity can be in building confidence, reducing isolation, and creating a real sense of belonging. Those experiences gave me the skills and confidence to move into my current role, where I get to work on projects that blend art, community, and wellbeing every day.

One of our recent highlights has been a collaboration with Art UK and West College Scotland’s photography department, where we ran a workshop inspired by George Wyllie’s ‘Berlin Bird’ public sculpture. The session was all about playfulness and experimentation — participants explored the story and shapes of the sculpture before creating their own papier-mâché birds. The energy in the room was brilliant, and it was amazing to see everyone’s individuality come through in their creations.

We’re thrilled that this project will soon be featured on the Art UK website, complete with a downloadable worksheet so anyone can join in from home and make their own bird. It’s a lovely way to extend the reach of the project and share the joy of making beyond the workshop.

Looking ahead, we’re preparing for our next exciting initiative: ‘Room for Art’. We’re currently reaching out for referrals of people aged 18–30 in Inverclyde who might benefit from some creative time and space. These workshops, facilitated by an experienced Glasgow-based artist, are designed to offer a safe, welcoming environment for those experiencing anxiety, isolation, or who simply want to reconnect through creativity. Sessions will run on Wednesdays from 2–4pm, and we can’t wait to see what grows from them.

Projects like these remind me why I do what I do — because creativity has the power to connect us, lift us up, and help us see the world (and ourselves) in new ways.

Find out more about the latest projects happening locally at the Wyllieum: https://www.wyllieum.com/