My Vision

In particular I have a dream that it would be a phenomenal opportunity for ‘creatives’ in the worlds of fashion, illustration, advertising, design, theatre and art to contribute their knowledge, enthusiasm and skill to teenagers and children who are disenchanted with school. By being part of the 'art car team', working alongside art teachers in schools they could teach, inspire and empower children who feel alienated and different and find the school system very difficult to negotiate. Through the encouragement of a 'shared vision' of something that can be so extraordinary and visually arresting sas an art car, they will have an opportunity to shape young people's lives and inspire them to grow and value themselves in the world.

Having worked creatively with many 'special needs' children one on one, and in large and small groups within a specialist arts and sport academy in Brent, I know personally what a difference creativity can make in their lives. We repeatedly experienced significant improvements in self esteem, motivation and behaviour as a consequence of using art, drumming and circus skills as tools of self expression, self reflection and absorption.

As a special group project it would just as importantly foster a sense of ‘family’ in school and teach children much about the power of clear communication and the growth, joy and sense of accomplishment that comes from cooperating and contributing to a shared vision. The American art teacher Rebecca Bass who has worked with students at Belaire High School who were seriously 'at risk' , is a brilliant mentor and example. Her creative vision and enthusiasm has transformed the lives of many children who now are motivated to pursue education and go to college where otherwise it was almost inevitable that they would have been pulled into the world of drugs. gangs and crime. Every year her Art Cars have won 1st prize at the Houston Art Car Parade and her pupils have had their self-esteem and sense of purpose reawakened.

Therefore the London Art Car Parade is the seed project for something much larger, braver and influential for the future - taking art and colour onto the streets but also bringing a colourful sense of purpose to young people's lives.