Looking back on the DRAW! Tour so far!
We’re shining a spotlight on the magic we’ve been making in Bradford East so far with the DRAW! Tour, part of Our Patch.
Published: May 19, 2025
Bringing Bradford 2025’s DRAW! campaign to life, the DRAW Tour has been taking artists and materials to the places where people are - libraries, hubs and community spaces buzzing with life.
Whether they've been a curious first-timer or a budding artist, the DRAW Tour has sparked creativity and connection across the district.
Taking New Faces on a Creative Journey
One of the standout success stories from the DRAW Tour comes from the amazing Possibilities Group, who meet at the E4 Community Hub. What started as a simple visit to January’s DRAW session at Laisterdyke Library, led by Creative Practitioner Duncan Burnett, quickly grew into something much more meaningful.
“They’re getting so much out of this. They don’t normally get invited or included, so it’s brilliant that they have been engaged and welcomed,” said one of the support workers at that session.
That initial spark didn’t fade. Samina Ali, Our Patch Producer for Bradford East, took the group’s contact details and not long after, she and Duncan paid them a visit in return — and now Duncan runs regular creative sessions with them!
This is exactly what the DRAW Tour is all about, giving people a taste of creativity that grows into something bigger.
Deep Roots in Community Spaces
We knew from the start — if we want people to feel at home, we need to go to the spaces they know and use already. That’s why we set up in familiar, welcoming places.
In Bradford East the DRAW Tour has been to:
- Laisterdyke Library
- Eccleshill Library
- Upper Bolton Social Club
- Barkerend Family Hub
- The Gateway Centre
The DRAW Tour is all about being part of the community, not outside of it. That’s why they are designed to pop up in familiar, welcoming spaces where people already feel at ease. By meeting communities where they are, it removes the pressure of stepping into unfamiliar or intimidating environments, making creativity truly accessible to everyone.
Open Doors: Regular, Friendly Drop-ins
The regular DRAW drop-ins were all about being easy, fun and pressure-free. Anyone could wander in, pick up a pencil, and get creative.
We’ve noticed some incredible things so far — from people not just staying local and travelling from far and wide to join in the fun, to amazing turnouts at our workshops. It’s been wonderful to see people of all ages feeling welcome, with whole families, grandparents, parents, and kids, creating together!
This kind of relaxed, joyful space makes art feel accessible to everyone.
Look out for the DRAW Tour near you!
The DRAW Tour is part of Our Patch – funded by the Esmee Fairbairn Foundation and The National Lottery Community Fund.
