Greater Shantallow Community Arts is a community based arts organisation dedicated to making creativity accessible, inclusive, and meaningful for people of all ages. We work primarily across the Greater Shantallow area and the Outer North region of Derry, supporting individuals and communities who may face barriers to taking part in the arts.

We believe the arts are not a luxury. They are a powerful tool for connection, confidence building, learning, and wellbeing. Our work creates opportunities for people to express themselves, develop new skills, and play an active role in the cultural life of their community.

At the heart of our organisation is Studio 2 Youth and Community Arts Centre, a welcoming creative space where workshops, performances, training, and community events take place year round. From first time participants to emerging artists, Studio 2 is a place where creativity is nurtured and talent is encouraged to grow.

We deliver a wide range of arts and cultural programmes designed to meet the needs of our community. These include:

• Creative workshops for children and young people

• Youth arts and leadership programmes

• Community arts projects that bring people together

• Training and development opportunities for local artists

• Performances, exhibitions, and cultural events

• Cross-community and intercultural initiatives

Our programmes support not only artistic development, but also confidence, communication skills, teamwork, and personal wellbeing.

Collaboration is central to our approach. We work in partnership with:

• Local schools and youth organisations

• Community and voluntary groups

• Artists and creative practitioners

• Health, education, and social care services

• Local council and regional arts bodies

These partnerships help us reach more people and ensure our work reflects the real needs and strengths of our communities.

Our work is built around five core ideas:

Create
We support people to make, perform, and experience art in many forms including music, drama, dance, visual arts, film, literature, and cultural traditions.

Connect
We bring people together across communities, generations, and cultures, using the arts to build understanding, friendships, and shared experiences.

Inspire
We encourage children and young people to discover their talents, grow in confidence, and see new possibilities for their future.

Care
We use creativity to support wellbeing, resilience, and recovery, particularly for those who may feel isolated, marginalised, or overlooked.

Community
We are rooted in the places and people we serve. Our programmes reflect local voices, local stories, and local ambitions.

We are committed to:

• Making the arts accessible to those who might not otherwise have the chance to take part

• Supporting lifelong learning and skills development through creative activity

• Providing opportunities for local artists to develop, collaborate, and present their work

• Using the arts to support good relations, cultural understanding, and inclusion

• Creating safe, welcoming spaces where people feel valued and heard

• Championing the role of creativity in improving health, wellbeing, and quality of life