Creating Together: The Role of Workshops in Clackmannanshire’s Remembering Together Project

Workshops were a cornerstone of Clackmannanshire’s Remembering Together Project, offering a space where creativity flourished and healing took root. These sessions, ranging from art and music to poetry and design, became more than just practical activities—they evolved into spaces where participants could rediscover their agency and connect on a deeper level.

Art, poetry, music, and collaborative design are not only beneficial for individual self-expression but have been shown to have profound effects on emotional and mental well-being. Psychologists often note how creative endeavours enable individuals to process complex emotions, particularly in times of trauma or grief. For many, the act of making something with their hands, or finding words to express thoughts previously unsaid, can provide a much-needed release and sense of control in an unpredictable world.

Through these workshops, participants found a sense of agency—an opportunity to shape not only the memorial but also their personal journey of healing. The workshops became spaces where fear, anxiety, and grief were transformed into creative expression, offering individuals a constructive way to process their experiences during the pandemic.

The Power of Collective Creation

Creating art, music, and poetry together introduced a deeper sense of belonging, echoing the ancient idea of anima mundi—the world soul. As participants shared their stories and created together, they began to feel their own connection not just within their local communities but to the world around them. Each workshop wasn’t just about creating an individual piece of work; it was about forming connections and fostering resilience. The act of collaboration built a collective energy that transcended borders and backgrounds, weaving together people’s stories into a shared narrative of hope and recovery.

Making Together is Healing Together

There’s something uniquely powerful about making art together. It taps into an age-old human need for connection and collaboration. Studies have shown that creating in groups—whether through music, painting, or even building—can lower stress, reduce anxiety, and increase a sense of belonging and purpose. In Clackmannanshire, this spirit of co-creation sparked both personal growth and community healing, bringing people together in an extraordinary way. When people collaborate on art, they don’t just share ideas; they share pieces of their own soul. They engage with one another on a deeper, almost spiritual level, which is where healing truly begins.

A Tapestry of the World Soul

As each workshop unfolded, participants began to feel the pulse of a much larger story. In their artwork, music, and poetry, they were not only commemorating the local impact of the pandemic but also reflecting the broader, interconnected struggles and hopes of the world. Just as the ancient philosophers believed in anima mundi, the creative efforts in Clackmannanshire became a reflection of this larger, interconnected spirit. From painting to crafting, every brushstroke and every note played became a thread in the larger tapestry of human experience, shared by the world.

In the end, it wasn't just about what was made but how the act of making together helped heal both the individuals and the community, drawing everyone into a collective and creative force.