A SPECIAL exhibition in Dukinfield showcased the talented skills of a creative group of local residents.
A colourful collection of handcrafted pottery, paintings, photography and textiles were on display at the Jigsaw Community Hub on Wellington Parade.
They had been created over the last two years by members of the Dukinfield Craft Cafe.
The group was set up in 2022 with support from local housing provider Jigsaw Homes and the Royal Exchange Theatre and is now funded by the Jigsaw Foundation.
It meets every Tuesday morning, and artist Samantha Edwards also runs regular drop-in craft sessions.
The local community were joined by local actress Julie Hesmondhalgh, the Civic Mayor of Tameside Councillor Betty Affleck, Dukinfield councillors Jackie Lane, Naila Sharif and John Taylor, Judy Kelly from Dukinfield and Stalybridge Rotary Club, and staff from Jigsaw Homes Tameside to view the exhibition.
The group is no stranger to exhibiting, having showcased their work as part of the ‘Save our Baths’ project at Manchester’s HOME, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Royal Exchange Theatre.
Members wanted the community in and around Dukinfield to see this and other work too, hence the reason for setting up the latest exhibition.
Artist Samantha Edwards said she was “over the moon” with the exhibition.
“It is a real privilege to be able to work with such an incredible group of artists and display their work,” she stated. “In a time where we see funding for the arts cut, it feels really important for the general public to see events like this in their communities. Art is for everyone and days like today prove that.”
John McGlynn, Neighbourhood Engagement Officer at Jigsaw Homes Group, added: “This exhibition was a wonderful way to showcase not just the skill, time and effort that people have dedicated, but the strength of camaraderie that has grown along the way.
“It has really helped to combat loneliness and social isolation and we are very proud to work with the Royal Exchange Theatre on this project.”