Let’s Create Art Club, founded by local artist Rachel Bray, welcomed children aged six to 12 to its Summer Art Camp in West Swindon.
The club used more than 2,000 sheets of paper throughout the summer, with youngsters taking part in painting, drawing, sculpture and design activities.
Families travelled from across the area to attend the sessions, including some from as far away as Ramsbury. Demand was so high that waiting lists formed for most days, prompting organisers to release additional spaces.
However, the club continued to limit group sizes to ensure children received individual attention and had opportunities to express themselves.
Founder Rachel Bray said:
“We delivered 380 spaces over the summer, with some children booking for multiple days and weeks.
“It was our biggest year to date, where children aged six to 12 attended and over 2,000 pieces of paper were used!”
She added: “We still like to keep numbers low because it allows every child to feel heard, that their ideas are valued and a part of the day.”
The summer programme featured a mixture of artist-led activities, outdoor play, games and opportunities for children to experiment with different materials.
One of the highlights saw youngsters work together on a giant splash art project beneath a tree canopy as temperatures reached 34°C.
Children also decorated superhero capes and masks, created illuminated fairy houses and took part in imaginative games.
Rachel said:
“It was so lovely to see the children making friends and having fun with art. They were expressing themselves and trying new things and often inspiring each other. It’s so important they get the time to create without any pressure on the outcome.”
The children were able to take their artwork home, although some of the larger creations proved more difficult for parents to transport.
Rachel added:
“I feel very privileged to be able to help children experience how to have fun with art and help to create great childhood memories.”
Let’s Create Art Club runs after-school sessions, Saturday morning clubs and holiday camps for children aged four to 12.
It was named a finalist in the Rising Star category at the Institute of Children’s Activity Providers (ICAP) Awards in 2025.
Following its record summer, the club is preparing to welcome children back for a Halloween Art Camp at Tregoze Primary School.
The sessions will take place from Thursday 22nd October to Friday 30th October, featuring a blacked-out room with ultraviolet lighting for fluorescent painting activities.
The camp will run from 9am to 3pm, with early drop-off and late collection options available.
