Ikon Youth Programme Secures Three-Year Funding to Continue Pioneering Art Education Initiative

With renewed funding from the Freelands Foundation for 2024-2027, the Ikon Youth Programme (IYP) is set to continue its unique and impactful work. The programme, which serves young people aged 16-21, transforms a converted narrowboat into an alternative art school, providing a platform for creative expression and social activism.

Exploring Birmingham’s Art School Heritage

IYP has developed a regional route that delves into the rich art school heritage of Birmingham and the West Midlands. Each year, the “Slow Boat” travels 150 miles along the canal network, stopping in cities such as Walsall, Wolverhampton, Tipton, Stourbridge, Smethwick, and Coventry. These stops offer young artists the opportunity to explore, create, and exhibit their work while engaging with local communities.

The Slow Boat: A Floating Studio and Hub for Creativity

The Slow Boat serves as more than just a mode of transportation; it is a mobile studio where IYP members develop and showcase new work in a variety of mediums, including ceramics, glass, performance, printmaking, photography, sound art, and textiles. This floating studio allows young people to experiment with their artistic identities, both individually and as part of a collective. The programme’s next phase will focus on environmental issues, harnessing the power of young people to lead climate action through their art.

A Space of Their Own: The Origins of Slow Boat

The creation of Slow Boat was inspired by IYP’s desire for a “space of their own”—a place where they could produce and present their interpretation of contemporary art as it intersects with popular culture and political activism. Since its inception in 2011, IYP has partnered with artists and community members to acquire and share arts and crafts knowledge and skills. In an era dominated by social media, IYP has worked alongside other youth groups to channel their voices, alleviate anxieties, and raise awareness of justice issues.

Regional Connections and Collaborations

As part of its programme, IYP presents a series of roving workshops, cultural interventions, and exhibitions in partnership with regional festivals and art events. The group also collaborates with other youth initiatives, including Sandwell Youth Service, and connects with Further Education institutions like Walsall College, Glasshouse College, and Halesowen College. IYP continues to offer creative space for students in Higher Education, engaging with art schools in Birmingham, Wolverhampton, and Coventry.

Engaging with a Global Network of Artists and Educators

In designing an alternative art school curriculum, IYP has tapped into a global network of associate artists and educators. The list includes renowned figures such as Taiba Akhtar, Dauvit Alexander, Felicity Allen, Haseebah Ali, and many others. Over the next three years, the group will embark on new projects with artists including Alex Billingham, Sarah Byrne, Dylan Fox, Joanna Fursman, and Fabien Verschaere. These collaborations will be supported by Rosie Abbey, Ikon Youth Programme Coordinator, and Dharmendra Parmar, Slow Boat Coordinator.

Reflecting on the Impact of IYP

Alice, a member of IYP, shared her thoughts on the programme: “I was very glad to hear the funding for Ikon Youth Programme has been renewed. It has provided a relaxed and creative space for me away from my academic studies, where I have met lots of people with similar yet varied interests. There being no financial barrier has allowed me to take part to the fullest extent, leading to many unique and invaluable experiences. These experiences have supported my decision to study a creative subject at university. I hope this funding means many more people can access and gain similar experiences from IYP!”

Looking Ahead: The Future of IYP

Dr Henry Ward, Director of Freelands Foundation, expressed his excitement about the future of the programme: “Ikon Youth Programme’s creation and exploration of ‘a space of their own’ where they could produce, present and promote their work reflects the symbiotic relationships we encourage in making and exploring. Slow Boat fosters process-driven art practice and re-imagines the location of an art school. We’re excited to continue supporting Ikon’s young participants with the space they need to consider, question and evolve their engagement within visual art practice.”

For more information, high-resolution images, or to request interviews, please contact Rebecca Small at r.small@ikon-gallery.org or call Ikon on 0121 248 0708.