Showcasing HARPMade Programme

HARP has officially opened the new HARPMade gallery and studio at 8–9 Market Place, with local artists, supporters and community partners in attendance.
From clothing and furniture to artwork and homewares, donated items that might otherwise have been overlooked are being transformed through creative sessions run by HARP. But for the people taking part, the value of HARPMade goes beyond what is produced.
HARPMade forms part of HARP’s THRIVE Recovery Programme, which supports wellbeing, connection and personal development. THRIVE stands for Therapeutic, Health, Recovery, Innovation, Vocation and Education. Activities include embroidery, sashiko stitching, printing, crafts, 3D printing and woodwork.
For some people, these sessions offer an opportunity to reconnect with interests they enjoyed earlier in life. For others, they provide a chance to try something completely new and build confidence alongside other people.
Vanessa Hemmings, Chief Executive of HARP, said: “HARPMade gives people space to explore what they enjoy and discover what they can do.
“Creating something, learning a skill and connecting with others can all help build confidence. This new gallery celebrates that creativity and invites Southend to be part of it.”
The new gallery has been refurbished with the support of Cama Assetstore, with around 70% of the materials used in the refurbishment being donated by Cama and upcycled, reflecting the ethos behind HARPMade, that something doesn’t need to be new to have value.
Any money raised through the sale of HARPMade pieces in HARP shops is reinvested into HARP’s THRIVE Recovery Programme. Last year, the THRIVE programme supported nearly 300 people, helping to create opportunities for connection, learning and personal development.
The new gallery also opens opportunities for the wider Southend community to get involved. HARP is looking for people and organisations who could donate suitable items, share creative skills through one-off workshops, commission handmade pieces or hire the gallery space for their own art shows or events.
The gallery and studio space has been supported by a Big Sparks grant from Southend City Council, the Morrisons Foundation, Cama Assetstore and FSJ Charities. To find out more, donate items, discuss a creative workshop or enquire about using the space, contact HARP on 01702 615000 or [email protected].
HARP is a local homelessness charity supporting people experiencing homelessness, or at risk of homelessness, across South Essex. The charity provides housing, advice and practical support, working alongside people to help them find safety, stability and a way forward.
HARPMade is part of HARP’s THRIVE Recovery Programme, which helps people develop skills, build confidence and connect with others through a range of activities.
Picture: HARP has officially opened the new HARPMade gallery and studio at 8–9 Market Place.
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