Pictures: BROOKE LITTLEWOOD
ARMED with a paintbrush, South East youth brewed creative and colourful ideas before pouring them out onto their blank coffee mug canvas.
Over 30 young people participated in the “Your Cup, Your Way” workshop, which was hosted by Millicent artist Mel Cecotti in conjunction with Youth Week.
The workshop brought the Millicent Gallery to life as budding artists of all ages and backgrounds came together to share ideas, have fun and showcase their talents.
Ms Cecotti said she was overwhelmed by the number of people who attended the event and highlighted the importance Youth Week holds, as well as the positive affect it has on the community.
“I think Youth Week is amazing because it provides a great opportunity for kids to get together and form fun memories, as well as friendships,” she said.
“I have hosted this workshop multiple times now and everyone leaves happier because they have expressed themselves.
“Expressing yourself through art you learn more about who you are as a person.
“In saying that it is really good for mental health and it also gets kids away from the screens, which is such a big thing now and while it is awesome it also has its downsides.”
Ms Cecotti came up with the idea for the workshop while watching television one night and feeling creative.
“I decided to paint a cup myself and discovered it was actually a really cool and fun thing to do,” she said.
“Then I was hit up by headspace and they asked me if I had any ideas for an event they were hosting.
“I told them about the cup I had decorated and thought it is not a big canvas so kids do not have to lug it around with them.
“It is a bit more personal as well because it is their mug and it is all about them.
“It is a complete expression of who they are and they can drink from it or use it for stationary.
“It is so good for their soul to get out and onto something they can keep and cherish for years to come.”
Youth Week wrapped up last week and was celebrated by over 100 young people in the community through a variety of free events and activities organised by council.
