ArtsFest at Ross Creative Learning Centre

Ross Creative Learning Centre plays host to ArtsFest, a celebration of music and art produced by young people from all over Herefordshire, on Thursday 17th February from 2 -10pm.

The venue (Y-Zone, Hill Street, Ross-on-Wye) will be buzzing with young people showcasing the wide range of work they have been undertaking with Herefordshire Community Youth Service and New Roots, which includes static art exhibits, films and live musical performances. 

During the course of the day there will also be opportunities for young people to observe demonstrations and participate in DJ-ing and dub/rap workshops with professionals including Dubmerge.

Youth Workers across the county, in partnership with a whole host of creative professionals and organisations, continue to provide a huge variety of arts based experiences for young people, with outstanding results including sculpture, murals and films – many of which will be featured at the ArtsFest event.

The performance arts feature equally strongly, and in order to meet of the young people’s musical desires the Youth Service works in close partnership with New Roots, one of the 22 Youth Music Action Zones established nationwide by the Youth Music. 

Through their work with New Roots, many young people have produced their own music which they will be performing at ArtsFest.

Elaine Clarke, Creative Learning Centre Manager, said  “With ArtsFest and the possible refurbishment this is an exciting time for me to be joining the project. 

“I am currently putting together a programme of events for the centre and look forward to expanding the programme as the facilities become available. 

“As for the ArtsFest, the young people have so much talent, energy and enthusiasm I’m certain that anyone who comes through the door to see their work will walk out feeling inspired by the wealth of imagination and ability”.

Admission to the event is free and everyone is welcome.

Ross Creative Learning Centre aims to provide creative experiences for young people and the wider community, with training and accreditation available to those who choose it. 

The Project Development Officer, Marion Campbell, is working to raise funding for the project, and pending successful funding bids, future refurbishment plans include a fully equipped studio theatre, arts and crafts room, music production suite and film-making facilities.