Art’s Role in Bridging Communities Across the City

Claudia Collins

This was one idea for a new mascot that residents have been creating. Hundreds of people have come together, not only to meet their neighbors but also to break down social barriers by participating in art workshops. These creative activities, designed to unite communities, are taking place across the city as part of a council initiative.

In Henbury, individuals crafted a mascot for their area at a local library. This mascot will be featured during an upcoming parade later this month. Resident Ramona Bigwood shared her thoughts: “Engaging in art activities together is an excellent way to meet your neighbors who live next door and find common ground.”

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Locals penned messages about what they cherish about Henbury’s Crow Lane on colorful fabric feathers. These were then sewn together by Kelly Jago, a Bristol-based costume maker known for creating chicken feet in The Masked Singer.

Claudia Collins One of the many feathers made by locals in Henbury

“As people work on these projects, they get to know each other and have conversations with neighbors they didn’t previously know,” said Claudia Collins, who helped run the workshops. “We’ve noticed that some participants found certain tasks challenging, but others were there to help and support them.”

Locals prepare fabric feathers adorned with positive messages

The mascot will be paraded through the Bristol suburb on Sunday 16 February at an event called the Crow Of Triumph. The parade, starting at 13:30 GMT, will wind down Crow Lane High Street, featuring art activities and free refreshments back at the library afterward.

This event is organized as part of the council’s High Streets Culture and Events Programme, which receives funding from both Bristol City Council and the West of England Combined Authority.