Oldham charity supporting recovery from addiction after lockdown

Sounds at the Edges, a new project by pioneering Oldham-based visual arts charity Portraits of Recovery (PORe), is bringing people in recovery from substance use together with a range of contemporary artists from across Greater Manchester.

Collaborating in weekly sessions throughout April and May, the project supports increased access to high-quality artistic experiences for the often-marginalised recovery community.

COVID-19 has hit those dealing with addiction hard – a September 2020 study conducted by the Royal College of Psychiatrists found that 8.4 million people’s drinking habits were classified as “high risk”, up from 4.8 million in February.

Both the National Drug Treatment Monitoring System and Alcoholics Anonymous have reported a dramatic increase in enquiries from those seeking help for their substance use issues over the past year.

Working with Creative Producer Jenny Walker, Sounds at the Edges tackles these issues head on by giving people the space to create, learn new skills and come together in a hands-on safe space, for some of their first cultural experiences in more than a year.

The project takes inspiration from the Recoverist Manifesto.

Developed through consultation with those in recovery, the manifesto asserts the direct voice of this community and speaks to their aspirations, hopes, fears, desires and dreams.

An outcome of PORe’s 2012- 2014 European arts project I AM, the Manifesto was shaped and edited by Professor Clive Parkinson, Director for Arts and Health at Manchester Metropolitan University.

Artists Ben Green, Jenny Walker, Freya Goodwin, Oliver East, James Ackerley and Claire Tindale will lead a series of stand-alone sessions.

From working with wood and discarded rubbish to textiles and film making, the artists will work with participants to help them develop new skills and create art that looks at their recovery and the role it plays in transforming their identity.

A new commission from artist and film maker Mr Green, produced especially for Sounds at the Edges, will encourage discussion around identity, judgement and what we chose to conceal or disclose about ourselves.

By creating their own content for the film, participants will develop their visual and reflective skills by gaining insight into the filmmaking process.

Mark Prest, Founding Director of PORe, said: “The last year has been incredibly turbulent for many communities, particularly the recovery community.

"Through our work with leading artists over the last ten years, we have given a voice to those in recovery – a group of people who still tragically exist at the margins of our society.

"I am thrilled that the easing of lockdown means we will be able to deliver Sounds at the Edges in person, providing some much-needed respite and inspiration after a very challenging time for us all.”

Jenny Walker, Creative Producer of Sounds at the Edges, said: “This is a significant project for everyone at a crucial time.

"For our participants, Sounds at the Edges represents the opportunity to experience the different creative approaches of some talented artists through hands-on learning and in person teaching, and – more importantly – use accessible materials and processes.

"Engaging with making in this way can play a vital role in well-being for us all, rostering a sense of control and realisation sometimes when little else seems within our grasp.

"For artists motivated by socially engaged practice, it is an exciting opportunity to extend their own research through a meaningful experience.”

Sounds at the Edges takes place at Hope Mill Theatre, Manchester, and runs on Wednesday mornings.

A final, celebratory event led by artist Joe Hartley will be held at the end of May for participants to reflect on their experiences and for the public to enjoy a first screening of Ben Green’s film.

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