Reframe: Inspire Schools

30 MEA students took part in an ‘Inspire Schools’ project delivered in partnership with MAC and Factory International, a creative multimedia initiative designed for KS3 students. The project aimed to spark curiosity in creative fields, expand access to cultural experiences and digital tools, and to enhance digital literacy amongst young people.

Students had the opportunity to visit London in July to kick start the project and take inspiration from Tavares Strachan: There is Light Somewhere, at the Hayward Gallery London. A key influence was his sculpture, The Encyclopaedia of Invisibility (2014-18), which catalogues thousands of historically under-represented individuals, places, and events. This powerful piece served as a catalyst for our young participants’ creative responses.

Using Apple technology, students worked with professional artist-educators, Courtney ‘CourtsWrites’ Hayles and Mike Emerson, in 5 full day workshops to produce digital ‘zines’ inspired by the artist Tavares Strachan. Through poetry, visual art, mixed media, and digital design, pupil creations explored themes of community, culture, and identity—bringing visibility to the untold stories of people who shape their lives.

The theme for their zines was – ‘Rep Your City’ – a portrait of Greater Manchester as seen through their eyes. Inspired by themes of identity and belonging, the students explored personal narratives through poetry, visual storytelling, and digital design.

Their zines celebrate the places and cultural influences that define their communities, while expressing the dreams and aspirations that shape their sense of self with each piece offering a unique reflection of what it means to belong in Manchester today.