Midsummer: Threads of Courage
On 20th June, a truly inspiring event at the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art brought together families, friends and community members to celebrate Refugee Week through creativity, culture and connection. Guests enjoyed an unforgettable midsummer evening featuring food, creative workshops, henna, flower garland making, sewing and embroidery activities, storytelling and music.
Midsummer: Threads of Courage was created through a remarkable collaboration between Northeast organisations and together, these partners created opportunities for people to explore themes of courage, belonging and connection through textiles, creativity and shared experiences.
Tradition meets contemporary design
As dusk fell, a spectacular fashion show highlighted where tradition meets contemporary design. Featuring beautiful traditional dress, innovative kimono-inspired garments and imaginative upcycled creations, the showcase celebrated the diverse stories, talents and resilience that enrich our communities. Rooted in a shared vision of the Northeast as a welcoming and inclusive cultural hub, the event demonstrated the power of creativity to bring people together.
North Tyneside Schools play their part
North Tyneside schools played a significant role in the success of the evening. Weeks of planning, preparation and collaboration culminated in a stunning display of young people's creativity, craftsmanship and determination. Pupils proudly showcased their designs and textile creations on the catwalk, modelling them with remarkable confidence, poise and flair.
Their contributions were a powerful reminder of the talent, creativity and inclusive values being nurtured in North Tyneside schools. Through their participation, pupils not only developed artistic and practical skills but also helped share important messages of welcome, community and understanding. Their achievements were a source of pride for their schools and an inspiring example of young people leading positive change through creativity and collaboration.
The event was a celebration of courage in all its forms and highlighted the outstanding contribution of North Tyneside's schools, staff and pupils in creating a more connected, compassionate and inclusive community.
Midsummer: Threads of Courage was created through a remarkable collaboration between Walking with North Tyneside, Friends of the Earth, Tynemouth Together with Refugees, North Tyneside Art Studio (NTAS), North Tyneside Council, Schools of Sanctuary, Green Heart Collective, Wallsend Community Hub and Library, Tyne Metropolitan College and Tyneside Welcomes.
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Article by
Diane Embley
Team leader
The Inclusive Learning and Achievement Service (ILAS)
diane.embley@northtyneside.gov.uk
