A NEW family-friendly attraction has been launched to inspire curiosity and creativity in young people at Warrington Museum.
The former Wren Gallery has been transformed into the ‘Creativity Cove’ which is a free interactive space for children to play in and explore.
The project has been led by Laura Mercer and Sophie New, from Culture Warrington, and the charity behind Warrington Museum, as well as Warrington Arts Festival and Parr Hall.
The Creativity Cove aims to provide a community spot where children can let their imaginations run wild in one of the oldest museums in the country, while parents can relax.
“The museum itself is a treasure trove of trinkets and thrilling objects just waiting to be discovered,” said Sophie.
“So that inspired us to create this opportunity for tiny minds to be tantalised.
“Kids can curate their own exhibition using the frames that open up, allowing space to display their own artworks using crayons and paper, or perhaps arranging the magnets inside to make an imaginative portrait.
“We’ve even thrown a plinth in for good measure, because what’s an exhibition without a Duplo or Stickle Brick sculpture?”
Youngsters can create their own mini museum masterpiece out of Duplo or Stickle Bricks, or pick from a range of books, boardgames and puzzles.
There is even a blackboard to leave messages for other visitors, and lots of accessories and clothes for those wanting to play dress up.
“The blackboard has also been transformed and is now fully interactive – offering prompts for visitors to check in with themselves as a tool for wellness and self-expression,” said Sophie.
“We’d also like to thank our lovely community who donated all the books we have.”
The creative space, which was launched alongside this year’s Warrington Arts Festival to enhance a family show at the museum called Lilo Lost It, was so well received that it is now a permanent addition to the venue.
It will also be the new home for the museum’s popular Crafternoons on Saturdays, and school holiday crafts on Wednesdays and Fridays.
“As two mums with little ones, we’ve loved working on this beautiful space for children to enjoy,” said Laura.
“We wanted to increase awareness of our amazing museum and develop an exciting self-guided offer for families, with a particular focus on early years.
“Lockdown had a huge impact on early years in terms of a lack of social interaction, a decrease in creative activities and an increase of screen time. Therefore, we wanted to create a space that ignites curiosity and creativity.
“It’s also important for adults to have the chance to take a minute and grab a cuppa, knowing that their children are entertained in a safe interactive space.”
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