Double Impact, a Nottingham-based drug and alcohol service showcases an exhibition of artwork by service users of Double Impact, Framework Housing Association and City Arts at ‘View From the Top Gallery’, Waterstones, Bridlesmithgate, Nottingham from Wednesday 16th July - Monday 21 July 2008.

A private press viewing for interview and photo opportunities is being held on Friday 18 July from 4.00pm to 6.30 pm. The success of the project is being shared at a regional conference taking place at View From the Top Gallery prior to the private viewing, interviews could also be accommodated during the conference on request.

The ‘One Door Opens’ exhibition is the culmination of a 12 month programme of activities, funded by the Arts Council England, the Nottingham Crime & Drugs Partnership and the Nottinghamshire County DAAT. It highlights how getting involved in the cultural life of the city and participating in creative activities can help people to make positive and sustained changes in their lives

The year long programme consisted of supported visits to local galleries, exhibitions, theatre and cinema performances and a weekly practical arts workshop.


Eleanor Kelsall, Senior Practitioner at Double Impact, said,

"The Arts Council funding has allowed us to offer service users from three organisations the chance to enjoy really high quality arts activities and discover new interests and skills. People who have become isolated through problems with drink and drugs, mental health or homelessness need inspiring choices and support to become a part of the community again, and these arts activities have proved to be incredibly popular with our client groups. Through being supported to enjoy the culture the city has to offer them, participants are more likely to get involved in healthy activities, make positive changes and stick with them."

Participants had this to say…

"I have never felt as enthusiastic about anything for years and years, it regenerated me. I was bubbling over for days about it."

"It was really worth coming to…seeing new things, what’s going on that I most probably wouldn’t have gone to on my own."

"Going with a group was really good…together with the genuine enthusiasm of the people who introduced the art. I’ve come away a couple of times and though that’s absolutely fantastic."

‘One Door Opens’ is the inspiration behind the display, providing an interesting theme for the participants’ considerable creative talents and optimistic outlook. The exhibition includes some varied and unusual work including ceramics, feltwork, willow sculpture, pyrography and resin collages.