‘There Is Still Art
There Is Still Hope’
Bob and Roberta Smith
Art Safari Inverclyde offered Arts for Wellbeing sessions across Greenock in association with RIG Arts:
‘A multi-award winning socially engaged arts charity that brings professional artists and communities together in a collaborative and creative way.’
…beginning in April 2025, and running through to June, the commission was the result of an Inverclyde Artist Residency focused on Adult Mental Health and funded by Creative Scotland.
“I like getting the different prompts, both at the workshops and at home, via little envelopes, as it leads to new ideas I wouldn't necessarily usually consider with my art just generally.”
Art Safari Inverclyde attendee
“Great series of creative activities - good variety and nice to have a reason to get out around folk.”
> RIG Arts participant
Context:
Greenock Town Centre and East Central Greenock, where the RIG Arts office and studio is based, is the most deprived area in the whole of Scotland. 45% of Inverclyde data zones fall within the 20% most deprived; the highest percentage of all local authorities in Scotland. (SIMD2020) Inequalities and mental health are ongoing concerns in the area. It is important that all engagement offers inclusive access to high quality cultural activities at no cost.
RIG Studio offers a valuable base for engagement. A central creative hub and easily accessible via public transport from all boroughs of Inverclyde. Supporting artists with space, community, resources, and equipment. RIG Art Flat offers space for engagement as well as accommodation, allowing artists to base themselves in Inverclyde.