In summer 2017 SI Leeds asked for expressions of interest from Leeds organisations to develop a project which would enable girls and young women to maintain the aspirations they have as children through adolescence, develop these and help them recognise and achieve their potential as young women.
We were delighted with the strong and innovative applications we received. It is testament to the resilience of third sector organisations in the current climate. After a rigorous process the club agreed to support Pavilion to develop an arts based project which addresses self perception which can be such a barrier to achieving potential
They are now in the process of developing the Art School for Rebel Girls. This programme will explore the power of images, and challenge the effects of social media and ‘selfie culture’, in shaping attitudes and beliefs about women. A cohort of young women, from two inner-city Leeds secondary schools, will embark on the three-year Art School for Rebel Girls project. Monthly art clubs will focus on images and stories of inspiring women related to the city and will offer exhibition visits, film screenings and creative challenges to develop cognitive skills and confidence. Each year will culminate in an intensive Summer Arts School with guest artists and a collectively made exhibition of artwork in partnership with the School of Fine Art, History of Art and Cultural Studies at University of Leeds.
We are really excited to sponsor and support this project which is now completed from our side but we hope will be able to continue in another form. We were delighted to see the difference it made to the girls and young women involved.