This week is Creativity and Wellbeing Week, a time to celebrate the power of creativity in bringing people together, lifting spirits, and making a real difference in our communities. In Woodrow, a small neighbourhood in Redditch, creativity has done just that.
Severn Arts, in partnership with Reimagine Redditch, recently completed a public art project that has transformed Woodrow into a place bursting with colour, pride, and connection. It all started with a simple but powerful request from the community—they wanted to brighten up their neighbourhood. They spoke about the challenges they faced, from health and wellbeing struggles to a lack of cultural opportunities, especially for young people.
In response, an artist-in-residence was commissioned to work side by side with residents, ensuring that the artwork truly reflected their lives, their stories, and their hopes for the future.
The result was breathtaking. A vibrant mural celebrating Woodrow’s past and present now stands as a beacon of identity and pride. A colourful clay collage, made up of self-crafted figures, represents the people who call Woodrow home. Young people created stunning glass collages, inspired by their memories of the neighbourhood. And, for the first time in many years, a celebration event complete with a Lantern Parade brought the community together in a way that felt joyful, meaningful, and long overdue.
The impact of Love Woodrow has been undeniable.
- 95% of those involved said the project had improved their wellbeing, generating feelings of happiness, relaxation, nostalgia, and pride.
- 91% said it had strengthened relationships and brought the community spirit to the surface.
- 99% said it had made people prouder to live in Woodrow and had changed perceptions of the area.
- 94% said it had brightened up the neighbourhood, capturing real stories, heritage, and the people who make Woodrow special.
Love Woodrow is more than just an art project. It is a testament to the power of creativity in transforming spaces, strengthening communities, and improving wellbeing. It has shown that when people come together to create, they don’t just make art—they make change.
To find out more about Severn Arts’ project Love Woodrow please click here: Love Woodrow – Public Art.