The Voluntary Arts Network’s (VAN) aim is to promote participation in the arts and crafts - we recognise that the arts and crafts are a key part of our culture and that they are vital to our health, culture, social and economic development.
The
Value and Benefits of Participating in the Arts
There is increasing awareness and understanding at all levels of the value and benefits of participating in - i.e. making and doing - the arts and crafts, to both individuals and communities.
These benefits can be seen in a multitude of ways - social, political, environmental, psychological, physical. This is in part because the arts deal with meanings and engaging with them helps us understand our values and gain a closer understanding about what it means to be a human being. It allows us to explore and express what matters to us which in turn contributes to our understanding of others. It enables us as individuals and communities to grow in confidence, communicate and interact better, and to release our potential in many different areas.
To be able to question, to change and shape one’s own life, to be inspired by the creativity of others, to find meaning and identity through one’s own practice, to dream and make those dreams a reality is a fundamental human right as stated in article 27 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights:
‘Everyone has the right freely to participate in the cultural life of the community, to enjoy the arts and to share in scientific advancement and its benefits’.
Support for the Voluntary and Amateur Arts
Over half the adult population in the UK engages in the arts and crafts at any one time - as many people paint and draw as play darts and as many people play a musical instrument as play football. Arts and crafts activities also pump many millions of pounds into the UK economy.
VAN works with policy makers, funders and politicians to improve the environment for everyone participating, or wanting to participate, in the arts and crafts - from small local groups to large national organisations and we provide information, advice and training to help these groups undertake their activities more successfully.
VAN operates in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, Wales, Scotland and England. For more information go to www.voluntaryarts.org or email info@voluntaryarts.org
