ARTISTIC youngsters in the district will soon be flagging up their feelings about the Covid pandemic.
Warwick District Council (WDC) has partnered with local artist and director of Artlab Libby Esler to work with young people aged 11 to 16 to create a series of art installations reflecting how the pandemic has affected their wellbeing.
Schools and youth groups from across the district will take place in workshops to create 50 flags, designed in the style of Tibetan Prayer Flags, which will be inscribed with their thoughts and feelings about life during the past two years.
In addition, they will be provided with information and access to art and mental health services available in the area.
The roving pop-up installation will see the flags placed on poles in a circle for people to wander through, enjoying the designs and allowing them to reflect on the past and look forward to the future.
Libby said: “I’m really looking forward to collaborating with all the young people, we are going to put together a fabulously colourful installation for all to admire.
“Most importantly we are going to unlock and set off into the wind some of the emotions and feelings that have been locked away in a time of COVID, and the idea that the Tibetan flag carries messages off into the wind will ring true in this case.
“It will be a moment of celebration, reflection, and hope for all who experience it and will raise awareness for the support that is available for young people and their families.”
WDC health spokeswoman Judy Falp was looking forward to seeing the completed flags.
She added: “Almost every young person has had to adjust to major changes in their education or employment, routine, leisure and home life – some have also experienced bereavement or other traumatic experiences during the lockdown period.
“These workshops offer them the opportunity and a safe space to reflect, talk and express their feelings through art.”
