A series of workshops took place in October 2024. 

Pictured: The workshops used art to provoke discussion and collaboration among participants.

The first brought together members of the LGBTQ+ community and people of all faiths, the second focused on different generations of LGBTQ+ people, and the third on allies and the LGBTQ+ community. 

Ms Nicholson said the workshops helped to “build community, a sense of belonging, new friendships and a safe space” for participants. 

“Following the first session, two faith leaders have decided to set up an LGBTQ+ multi-faith space in order for LGBTQ+ community members to feel safe and welcome,” she said. 

Ms Nicholson added that the feedback from the multigenerational session was “emotive”, with one participant saying they had gained “absolute joy” from the session. 

“Younger generations expressed a lot of value in their interactions with people older than them,” she said. 

The workshops were funded by the Government of Jersey's Connect Me initiative, a grant scheme that supports cultural and physical activities in the community. 

It aims to “promote a sense of connection, prevent loneliness and enhance both physical health and overall wellbeing”. 

Artist Kelly Eastwood said that it was a “privilege” to facilitate the workshops and was grateful to those who “shared their creativity and courage”. 

She added: "These projects are not just about creating something beautiful, they are about fostering self-discovery, amplifying voices and building a sense of community.  

"Art has the power to break barriers, build bridges and create moments of joy and healing.” 

Ms Nicholson said that she and the Liberate Jersey team plan to use the feedback from the sessions to inform future events. 

“All participants responded that they would like to attend future similar events and demonstrated that these sessions had been very impactful, not only for our LGBTQ+ folks, but also for our allies who took part,” she explained. 

“We will further develop this community building, helping to build an inclusive society as part of our mission as a local charity.” 

Ms Nicholson is asking any local artists, performers or writers who are interested in collaborating on future projects to contact her via email at kaye@liberate.je. 

An exhibition of the majority of the art pieces will be displayed in Cafejac at the Jersey Arts Centre until 1 February. 

Any organisations that are interested in displaying the artwork, or would like to have some or all of the pieces on loan, should also get in touch with Ms Nicholson.

Pictured top: Liberate CEO Kaye Nicholson (left) and artist Kelly Eastwood (right).