Art has always been an important part of West African life, both as a decorative and a communicative medium. Although Ghana is blessed with a number of talented artists, artistic development is often restricted by a narrow school curriculum and limited resource. This project is an ideal opportunity to make art available to young Ghanaians during a gap year or volunteer holiday who would otherwise be excluded from developing their creative abilities. Furthermore, you will have the chance to work alongside some of Africa's leading artists, sharing ideas and styles from the western and African traditions.

Your Art and Craft Volunteer Placement (Working with Children)
During part of the project, you will help to run school art clubs within a number of local schools. The clubs extend right across the artistic spectrum, from painting to sculpture, so you will be able to focus on one or many of a number of different areas. Aside from learning artistic techniques and self-expression, the children you work with will greatly value the attention and help you offer, and life-long friendships are sure to be made.

Your Art and Craft Volunteer Placement (Working with Local Artists)
Your time will also be spent working with a number of gifted Ghanaian artists whose range of disciplines include painting, sculpture, carving, screen printing, jewellery design, batik and photography. Through your discussions and practical experimentation, you will learn a great deal about the imagery, history and style of African art, which has a unique character set apart from 'Western' heritage. At the same time, you may be able to offer advice and introduce new ideas and interpretations. Please note that working with the local artists is subject to their availability and may incur an additional contribution for any time and materials you require outside of the project.

Your Art and Craft Role
It is up to you to decide your level of involvement with each part of the project. However, there is a vast pool of artistic knowledge that you can take advantage of so we invite you to delve as deeply as possible. There is no obligation to keep up with your associated artists, but we are sure that you will want to take full advantage of the artistic ideas and skills they are willing to share.

During your role at the arts club, you will be able to create a programme with your class by developing a syllabus and setting achievement targets. This will, of course, demand more consistent commitment. The ultimate goal for students will be to display some of their work in a special exhibition, which you will help organise. This will be crucial in the development of their self-confidence and in setting firm foundations for a possible professional career in art.

Art and Design University Electives and Dissertations
If you are doing a creative course at university and able to use part of your studies to gain hands-on experience, we can make an elective programme ideal for you. We have had a number of students working in Ghana towards their degree, either filling course electives or researching and working towards their dissertation. If you are already qualified, the project is also a perfect opportunity to gain the sought-after experience all professional employers look for.

Gap Year Art and Craft in Ghana
A gap year art and craft project in Ghana during your gap year is the perfect way to enjoy gap year travel while giving something back through a gap year volunteer project. Our art and craft project will provide fantastic gap year opportunities, unforgettable gap year memories, close friendships, and the gap year experience of your life.