Eco-Art: Think Artist, Derby Centre herald environmental responsibility

As part of collective efforts towards protecting the planet and ensuring sustainable use of resources, focusing on waste reduction, energy conservation and prevention of pollution, Think Artist, in collaboration with the Derby Refugee Advice Centre, held a workshop on combining environmental responsibility with creative expression.

The historic art showcase tagged ‘Reduce, Reuse, Up-cycle’ took place on August 28, 2025 at Bosnian and Herzegovina Centre Derby, with focus on ‘Celebrating Resilience Through Sustainable Art.’

The event seeks to foster greater environmental awareness and responsibility in communities through sustainable art.

Led by award-winning artist Armstrong Agoreyo, the session provided a space for refugees in the community to explore the art of upcycling.

Participants drawn from the ancient city of Derby, acclaimed for its rich industrial heritage, particularly in railways and textiles, were tasked with repurposing discarded magazines, turning everyday waste into striking works of art.

Highlights of the event included skill building, with participants engaged in critical thinking, and as well thought techniques to transform paper waste into complex visual structures.

The workshop also offered opportunity for community connection, presenting creative outlets to honour the courage and resilience of refugee youth, and as well elicited their ingenuity.

Healing Through Art: A Journey ‘Down Memory Lane’

Think Artist and Bosnian Centre hosted a session with the theme, “Down Memory Lane”, facilitated by Armstrong Agoreyo, with focus on using repurposed waste materials as a medium for art therapy.

According to the facilitator, many refugees arriving at the Bosnian Centre for guidance carry significant emotional burdens, often facing confusion or depression resulting from past trauma.

“Recognising the vital need for emotional release and mental well-being, Think Artist decided to partner with the Bosnian Centre to organize this specialised therapeutic art workshop, “ he said.

Rather than focusing on recent hardships, participants were guided through critical thinking activities designed to recall happy moments, cherished objects, and loved ones from their home countries.

There was a visible transformation in the atmosphere in the studio as what began as a quiet gathering evolved into a room filled with collaboration, smiles, and laughter.

The workshop did not just produce priceless works of art captured on camera; it created a safe space for joy and connection.