THE Inspired and Proud Project has worked with young people, schools, serving military personnel, veterans, cadets and other members of the community in a series of workshops in and around Bradford.
The exhibition of artwork, photographs and artefacts in the Pavilion in City Park, Bradford was viewed by the HM Vice Lord Lieutenant, Mr Tim Hare the Deputy Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Joanne Dodds, Deputy Commander of 15 (North East) Brigade, Colonel Steve Hopper and other dignitaries. The exhibition is open to the public daily between 11am and 5pm until 14 March 2014.
Funded by an Armed Forces Covenant Grant, the project aimed to change perceptions, attitudes and behaviours towards the Armed Forces. During the workshops, veterans shared their experiences with the local community including young people who then produced artwork on this theme.
“The Armed Forces Covenant Grant has been instrumental in engaging veterans, their families and Service personnel to share their experiences,” said Nasim Qureshi, the Chief Executive Officer for the Inspired and Proud project.
“Young people involved in this project have benefitted from learning and sharing these experiences. The art work and poems they have produced shows a positive shift in their perceptions and behaviours towards the Armed Forces and conflict.
“The project has successfully started the journey to shift negative perceptions and images created in the media.”
Before the exhibition opened, there was a wreath laying ceremony at the Cenotaph adjacent to City Park to show respect for those who gave their lives for their country. Wreaths were laid by HM Vice Lord-Lieutenant and Jeanette Sunderland, the Chairman of the Inspired Neighbourhoods Community Interest Company which is based in the Thornbury Centre in Leeds Old Road.
The project has been supported by Bradford Council, SSAFA, National Media Museum, the Royal British Legion and various secondary and primary schools.
Images: ©MOD Crown copyright, by Sgt Paul Morrison RLC