Art show celebrates talent of Sheffield  care leavers

The event, called Care Leavers Art Show Sheffield, (CLASS), was organised to celebrate the artistic skills and work of care leavers and included a DJ, VR snowboarding, a chocolate fountain and raffle.

More than 60 care leavers attended the event and showcased their work.

There were also displays of artwork, photography, singing, poetry and music, as well as the chance to take part in a graffiti art workshop.

One of the care leavers who attended, Ethan, said it had been a very memorable evening.

He said: 'It was the best night of my life, it's made me want to get out of the house and meet people more.'

Sheffield based company, Mural Artists, led a graffiti art workshop designed to build confidence and self-expression by letting care leavers try out their skills.

Graffiti art, which is done legally and with permission, can provide anything from a fun social activity to a professional art career.

Ethan was one of the attendees who made some graffiti art at the event.

Councillor Jackie Drayton, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Families, said she was pleased to have been invited to the event, and praised each of the care leavers who took part.

She said: 'CLASS was a brilliant event for Sheffield care leavers to show off their creativity and fantastic artistic skills including; art, photography, poetry, music making, singing, rapping and beat boxing.

'It was a wonderful evening to be part of; I really enjoyed myself celebrating with our incredible care leavers.

'Well done to the Sheffield Care Leavers Union and all those involved in organising the event '“ a brilliant night was had by all.'

She added: 'We are committed to improving the lives of our children and young people in care and our care leavers, not just through quality care in life but after care as well.'

A new scheme called Project Apollo has launched to support young people leaving care to move into education, work and training. The project has been commissioned by Sheffield City Council's Leaving Care Service and delivered by youth charity Sheffield Futures.