Scribble and Sketch: Celebrating 10 years of family-friendly creativity in Bristol Communities

This October we are celebrating a decade of Scribble and Sketch, our free programme of artist-led creative workshops for families in community spaces across Bristol.  

Launched in Easton Community Centre and Redcliffe Children’s Centre in 2016, Scribble and Sketch was established to bridge gaps in arts access for children and families. Over the past ten years, the programme has expanded, bringing creative opportunities to neighborhoods including Hartcliffe, Easton, Southmead, and Bedminster, welcoming over 700 families annually. 

Anne Nisbett, High Sheriff of Bristol and Chair of Board of Trustees at the Nisbet Trust who support the Scribble Sketch sessions said:

"It is often said that the RWA is one of Bristol’s hidden treasures. Through Scribble and Sketch, however, its impact reaches far beyond its walls, bringing joy, confidence and wellbeing that art and creativity can offer, inspiring communities across the city"

Victoria Willmott is a Printer Maker and creative facilitator who has been delivering Scribble and Sketch sessions since its launch. Victoria shared that "It is a honour to be involved in Scribble and Sketch, helping local Bristol families connect to art and the RWA right on their doorstep. I've seen many families who would ordinarily struggle with time or resources, find their way into art through the sessions. Because the sessions are free for families, it allows space to play, explore materials and themes through playful ways that the families discover at their own pace" 

More than workshops, Scribble and Sketch create opportunities for children and their families to present their art to the wider community. Highlights from last year include the RWA's Scribble & Sketch: Four Seasons exhibition which featured over 100 artworks created by workshop participants. To mark the occasion, the young artists hosted a special Private View to share their exhibition with friends and family. 

Children and families are invited to the Scribble and Sketch 10th Anniversary session at Windmill Hill City Farm on 17th October 2026, led by Vicky where there will be opporttunity to enjoy cake alongside the planned creative actitivies.

Lead image: Alastair Brookes / KoLAB Studios

 

Scribble and Sketch is supported by the Nisbet Trust