Artworks create a positive step to being more active

A STAIRWAY to art heaven will inspire people to be more active while showcasing young people’s creations.

The artworks have been displayed along a staircase at Tameside College to encourage staff, students and visitors to take the stairs and feel the health benefits.

Tameside Council’s Public Health and Arts and Engagement teams collaborated with Clarendon Sixth Form College to deliver the artist-led Arts Award Bronze project. It involved students who are studying for a BTEC Extended National Diploma in Art and Design Practice – Graphic Design. Their brief was to use artwork to increase movement within the college, which they worked with Fabric Lenny to co-create.

The Stairwell Project has been funded through the Place partnership and the Mayor’s Challenge Fund scheme.

A lack of activity, including sitting for most of the day, can lead to health problems. Encouraging people to be active can boost their physical and mental health, and is proven to increase productivity, focus and creativity.

Cllr Eleanor Wills, Tameside Council Executive Member for Population Health and Wellbeing, said: “The students have created some fantastic artwork that is now on display along a staircase at Tameside College. It will encourage students, staff and visitors to take the stairs and leave the lift as they enjoy and connect with these stunning designs.

“In Tameside we are aiming to get everyone moving for 30 minutes or more every day. Whether we walk, run, swim, cycle, play sport, garden, or use the stairs more, it all counts to help us live happier and healthier lives.”

Cllr Bill Fairfoull, Tameside Council’s Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Children and Families, said: “It was a pleasure to see the brilliant artwork that the students have created and to celebrate their achievements. I’m delighted that our talented young people are being proactive in inspiring good choices and leading the way in supporting others to boost their health and wellbeing.”

Ruth James, Head of Department for Creative Studies at Clarendon Sixth Form College, said: “Students have worked incredibly hard on this project and to see the finished product is fantastic. It has created a real buzz around the campus and has started a conversation about keeping healthy, which was exactly the brief. I am extremely proud of the students’ hard work and am sure they all have great careers ahead of them.”

Alongside the project, students and staff have been finding other enjoyable ways to move more, in particular taking group trips outdoors to Chadwick Dam, a local place of nature within easy reach of the college buildings.