River of Hope

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Art project helps children understand and express their concerns about the climate crisis.

Creative arts-based learning project River of Hope, spearheaded by the Thames Festival Trust, will partner with further festivals and organisations this year to allow more young people to express their feelings about the climate crisis. River of Hope provides an amazing opportunity to connect with the local environment; young people take part in an out-of-school river visit and then create artworks under the guidance of inspirational professional artists. The project also benefits teachers by providing them with artist professional development and access to online resources to encourage them to include climate change topics within their curriculum teaching. 

In 2024, the project will directly engage over 3,500 young people nationally and internationally. The magnificent artwork and poetry created by the young people can be viewed online as part of an interactive gallery as well as in person at various festivals and events. River of Hope will work in 7 UK regions: Leeds, Newham (London), Tees Valley, Norfolk, Norwich, Dorset and Plymouth, and also in France and Ethiopia. 

The output this year is:

• 2nd – 4th August 2024, Stockton International Riverside Festival in the Tees Valley. 

• 21st September at Cody Dock and 22nd September as part of Thames Day will display the output from Newham, created as part of Thames Festival Trust and the Totally Thames Festival, with participation from ten primary schools and Cody Dock along with artist Fiona Grady. 

• 26th October, Tamar Festival in Calstock. 

River of Hope focuses on raising awareness of environmental issues amongst young people and giving them voice and agency in navigating the climate crisis through art and creativity.

Further Information: Thames Festival Trust | River of Hope | Thames Festival Trust