What we do
Voluntary Arts supports, encourages, promotes and advocates for creative cultural activity in all its forms.
Where we do it – and who with
We work across the UK and Republic of Ireland, with everyone who gets creative purely for the love of it. We also work with anyone who helps facilitate creative participation, those who fund it, provide spaces for it to happen, and the people who work alongside communities to support them in their creative endeavours.
What do we mean by ‘creative activity’?
Everything from traditional amateur arts and crafts (singing, dancing, drama, knitting, painting, sewing – and lots more besides) to wider definitions of creativity such as digital arts, or expressing yourself in the kitchen or garden.
Why it’s importantWe recognise the huge contribution that creative cultural activity makes to people’s wellbeing – whether they’re part of a group or going it alone.
We regularly see the difference it makes to individuals and communities, and the way creative pursuits bring people together, teaches them new skills, boosts confidence and brings about a sense of achievement.
Like many things in life, it’s often about the journey and the experience, rather than an end result (although that can be great, too).Our work
The work of Voluntary Arts can be broadly categorised as follows:
Visit the other parts of our website to read about...
Our annual awards scheme, the Epic Awards
Our annual celebration of creativity, the Get Creative Festival
Our collaboration with BBC local radio, Up For Arts
Our extensive resources, including helpful briefings on a range of topics, our listings of job opportunities, creative opportunities, funding and much more.
Join us for regular online get-togethers for anyone involved in arts, culture and creativity so we can connect and collaborate remotely Read more
A song for Edinburgh's choirs Read more
A participatory drawing project developed by Voluntary Arts Ireland culminating in an exhibition at the Glucksman Gallery during November 2020. Read more
The artists behind the MAKING SPACE project tell us about moving the project from a shopping centre in Lisburn to online activities Read more
The Exit 15 Microfund is a friendly little fund to help community groups put on new events and activities in the Ballyogan area. Find out more about the projects Read more
A participatory arts project delivered by Voluntary Arts Wales and Coast Lines. Read more
An overview of Voluntary Arts Wales' 2018 research project Creative Community Conversations. Read more
Information about the two-year European project exploring how co-creative activities help to bridge social divides Read more
Poetry project explores how being creative makes us feel. Read more
Thinking about setting up your own community cinema? With the help of Cinema For All we've gathered together lots of useful information to help you get started. Read more