Celebrating Cultural Diversity Through Co-Creation in Rhyl Schools

In late 2023, I led a co-creation arts project in two primary schools in Rhyl (North Wales), as part of a broader initiative funded by Denbighshire Council. The project aimed to celebrate the rich cultural diversity of English as an Additional Language (EAL) pupils, many of whom had recently arrived from countries such as Syria and Ukraine. These pupils aged 5 to 11, represented a remarkable variety of backgrounds, collectively speaking 28 languages.

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Over eight workshop sessions, I worked with approximately 70 pupils to create two unique artworks (one for each school) that reflected their personal stories, cultural identities, and shared experiences. The co-creation process was central to the project’s success, empowering the children to lead and shape the outcomes. Together, we designed imaginative maps that connected their home countries and languages. These pieces became visual representations of belonging, pride, and the vibrant cultural threads that tie communities together.

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The workshops were more than art-making; they were a space for dialogue, reflection, and connection. Pupils explored their sense of identity and belonging, navigating between their heritage and their present environment. For many, this was an empowering opportunity to celebrate their roots, while others found new ways to express themselves and feel included. The final artworks are now displayed in the schools as permanent reminders of the pupils’ creativity, resilience, and the value of their contributions.

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This project deepened my understanding of the transformative potential of co-creation in fostering inclusivity and resilience. It also offered me a chance to reflect on my own experiences as an emigrant and practitioner, reaffirming my belief in the power of art to bridge divides, build connections, and celebrate the richness of diverse communities.