“I’m Not Artsy - How Can I Get Involved?” Inside CCC Workshops
- Rose Hill
- Apr 24
- 4 min read
One of the most common things we hear at Co-Creative Connection is: “I’d love to get involved, but I’m not an artist.” Many people assume that participating in a community mural project requires artistic skills or years of creative experience, but that couldn’t be further from the truth!
The core mission of CCC is to make art universally accessible because we design our projects to include everyone and ensure they remain welcoming and accessible. At CCC, we firmly believe that art is for everyone, Even if you haven’t used a paintbrush since school or think you have no artistic ability you can still get involved and make meaningful contributions to something remarkable! Here’s how.
It’s About Collaboration, Not Perfection 🎨
One of the biggest misconceptions about creating art is that you need to be “good” at it to participate. But our workshops and mural projects are not about individual artistic talent; they’re about collective storytelling, connection, and making an impact together.
Every project at CCC begins with a co-design process, where participants get to contribute their ideas, opinions, and experiences to help create the finished piece of art! Before we even begin painting the mural itself, this phase of the project is crucial. Some people help by sharing local memories, suggesting images or symbols that best reflect their area, or selecting colours, forms, and patterns that speak to them. The themes and visual elements that will be included in the finished mural are shaped by these discussions.
If you’re feeling hesitant about painting or drawing, you can still have an amazing impact by helping to shape the creative direction of the piece. The more voices we have contributing to the design, the stronger the final result!
Hands-On Activities for Everyone 🖌️
Your artistic skills don't need to be a barrier because there are numerous opportunities to take part in mural-making tasks. Our workshops offer various practical activities designed to make participation simple for all attendees.
Our guidance follows clear step-by-step instructions which ensure you always know what actions to take. Participants can complete manageable tasks during the process that include filling out a pattern worksheet for pattern and shape exploration and doing collaging which helps people turn their ideas into visual form. So even if you’re completely new to painting and drawing, it’s an easy and enjoyable experience.
Some participants enjoy helping to organise materials and mix paints while others take photos of the project and talk to fellow participants to create a welcoming space.
Community art is beautiful because every contribution counts regardless of its size. You become part of the creative process whether you paint one stroke or help design an entire section.
A Welcoming & Supportive Environment 💬
Stepping into a creative space can feel intimidating if you don’t consider yourself an artist, which is why we go out of our way to create a relaxed, pressure-free, and encouraging environment at every CCC workshop.
There’s no need to worry about making mistakes, art is meant to be expressive and imperfect! Our team is always on hand to provide support, whether that’s helping with techniques, offering guidance, or simply giving you the confidence to try something new.
We also make sure our sessions are social and enjoyable. There’s usually music playing, plenty of conversation, and often refreshments to keep energy levels up. The focus is just as much on connection and enjoyment as it is on the final artwork.
For those who may feel shy about sharing ideas in a group setting, we provide alternative ways to contribute. Using anonymous suggestion boxes, post-it note ideas, or group brainstorming exercises allows everyone to have a voice without feeling put on the spot.
The Impact Goes Beyond Art
The impact of participating in a CCC project goes well beyond just the artwork, which is one of its most impressive features. While creating the mural is a key aspect of community art, another crucial part is developing something that unites people, strengthens relationships, and leaves a positive, lasting impression on the community and its residents.
Even if you decide not to pick up a paintbrush, being part of the process - meeting new people, sharing ideas, contributing in small ways - can be a deeply rewarding experience! Many participants have expressed how these projects have helped boost their confidence, give them a sense of purpose, and even improve their overall well-being.
For some, CCC workshops have been a way to overcome social anxiety, find a creative outlet for stress relief, or reconnect with their community in ways they hadn’t experienced before. Others have discovered a new passion for creative expression, even if they never considered themselves artistic in the past. There’s something to benefit everyone!
How You Can Get Involved in an Art Workshop✨
So, if you’ve ever thought, “I’d love to take part, but I’m not artistic,” we encourage you to come along anyway! There’s something for everyone in our workshops, and you might be surprised at how much fun you have, how much you contribute, and the impact you help create.
You can get involved by:
Attending a CCC workshop and taking part in the co-design process
Trying out different creative activities - no prior experience required!
Supporting the project in other ways, like helping with set-up, documenting the process, or simply being part of the community
Spreading the word and encouraging others to join in
By taking part, you’re not just helping to create a piece of public art - you’re helping to build a stronger, more connected, and more vibrant community.
Ready to be part of something special? Keep an eye on our upcoming workshops or get in touch to find out how you can get your community involved in our next project!
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