Some projects remind us exactly why we do what we do at Arthaus, and ‘You and I’ is one of them.
Led by Yarm School and inspired by our very own Mackenzie Thorpe, this extraordinary community project has brought together more than 1,000 children from around 20 primary schools across Stockton-on-Tees to create something truly special.
Each child has sculpted a clay figure of themselves, holding a heart or something meaningful to them. Together, these individual pieces form a powerful installation celebrating identity, creativity and the next generation growing up alongside Stockton’s new waterfront park.
Over the past two years, workshops led by Rachel Shepherd (Yarm Prep School) and artist Jessica Jenyns have given children far more than creative skills. They’ve given them space to express themselves, build confidence, and feel proud of who they are. Some works are joyful celebrations of family, pets and hobbies. Others are deeply personal tributes to loved ones.
Time and again, we’ve seen how clay becomes a way for children to say things that are otherwise hard to put into words. Moments like these stay with you: children who often struggle in school becoming completely absorbed in making, finding calm, focus and pride in what they’ve created.
Our very own Mackenzie has always spoken openly about how art gave him a voice growing up, and that message clearly resonated throughout the project. His encouragement and belief in the children has been a powerful part of their journey.
After hearing about the project, Mackenzie shared:
“It’s clear to me that the ‘You and I’ project has been about much more than simply making sculptures. Memories have been forged, voices heard, confidence built and community strengthened. Well done to all involved — you are an inspiration.”
We couldn’t agree more. The installation was a real highlight of the opening of Stockton Waterfront Urban Park, featured in regional coverage including Teesside Live, which captured the scale and spirit of the work beautifully:
Stockton Waterfront Urban Park preview and video
We are incredibly proud to announce that Arthaus Gallery will also be exhibiting this beautiful collection of work!
It is a privilege to welcome these young artists, along with their families and schools from across Stockton-on-Tees, into the gallery. We can’t wait to share their work and celebrate a project that shows just how powerful creativity can be when it belongs to everyone.
Full exhibition details will follow soon.
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