Art For Change (AFC), rooted in the Design for Change (DFC) ‘I CAN’ methodology, is a transformative initiative empowering marginalised young people in Northern Ireland. Through a unique partnership with Queen’s University Belfast, Art For Change has leveraged multidisciplinary arts to foster well-being, creative expression, and dialogue on pressing social issues.

In 2024, the programme directly engaged 38 young people to explore topics including Racism, Stereotyping, Social Media Addiction and Adolescence. The project culminated in a showcase at the Brian Friel Theatre, Queen’s University Belfast with an audience of 100 people, featuring outputs such as a song, drama, poetry, two paintings, and a multidisciplinary recording.

In 2025, Art For Change engaged 41 participants, with 30 completing the programme and 28 presenting at the showcase. In a safe, creative environment, they addressed Online Safety, Racist Bullying, Discrimination, Bullying and Self-Harm through art. Outputs included a song, a musical dramatic performance, 3D sculpture, animation video, drama, a painting, an illustrated comic book and a mixed media sculpture, shared with an audience of 100 people.

Queen’s University Belfast’s provision of high-quality venues, equipment, technical, creative and academic support, including ongoing academic advice from Professor Franziska Schroeder, has been instrumental in creating professional, inspiring environments for these young artists.

Art For Change’s ‘Feel, Imagine, Do, Share’ methodology enables young people to identify challenges, envision solutions, create impactful artworks and present their ‘Stories of Change’ to wider audiences. This process nurtures artistic skills, critical thinking, empathy, civic responsibility and intercultural exchange.

Feedback has been consistently positive, with participants reporting increased confidence, improved well-being, and a stronger sense of belonging. Queen’s University Belfast staff and artists have praised the programme’s transformative impact and high-quality outputs. Dr Kurt Taroff, Head of School, School of Arts, English and Languages commented:

“It’s so great to see all the work done, with so many different approaches to so many important issues, with such a wide range of people coming to see it. A really wonderful event!”

While Gavin O’Connor, Arts Development Officer, Arts Council NI said:

“The Art For Change programme brings together diverse youth who engage with each other, with artists, with facilitators and demonstrate that diversity is a positive force. It is important to note that there are huge commonalities within and between communities through the issues addressed by the young people through their artwork and through their determination and passion to communicate effective has resonance for all communities. The Arts Council is pleased to support this work."

The partnership has also opened future opportunities, including Queen’s University Belfast student volunteering in ‘Art For Change at School’ projects, further research collaborations on participatory arts and continued use of Queen’s University Belfast facilities for showcases and training.