Belfast children’s art and media exhibition to open

A children's art and media exhibition, launched by the children's charity, the Youth Empowerment Scheme (YES), is to open tonight at the Ormeau Baths Gallery.

The children's charity, which provides a weekly mentoring service, uses art, media and drama as a way of bringing together children from diverse backgrounds, and the art and media exhibition will showcase the work of children, aged 11-14 years old from across Belfast.

The exhibition will include the screening of a political broadcast created by the children of YES highlighting issues such as bullying, smoking and racism.

On display, will be over 30 images exploring and celebrating different themes such as diversity and cultural identity.

In addition, a giant mural depicting young people's ideas of the world in fifty years time will be showcased.

The exhibition serves to "highlight the excellent work by YES participants over the last twelve months," said Michaela Smyth, Vice-Chairperson of the children's charity.

"The range of work on display celebrates the diversity of the children. We are extremely proud of children and their achievements. The exhibition demonstrates the creative ways young people can explore important issues of the day. I would encourage everyone to take the opportunity to visit this worthwhile exhibition in the coming days."

Emily Chan, 15, a participant of YES who will officially open the exhibition said: "The exhibition is a good way for other young people and the general public to see first hand how children can express themselves through art and media. My experience at YES has been very positive. I have been able to interact with other young people from different backgrounds and develop my skills and confidence."

YES in association with the University of Ulster was recently lauded by the Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) for their work at the Charity Oscars.

The exhibition which opens at 7.30pm has been sponsored by the Belfast City Council as part of the Celebrate Belfast programme.

(SP/EF)