Emergence: Creative Workshops Celebrating Queer Voices and Community Connection
A new series of creative workshops titled Emergence is bringing people together in Pembrokeshire through art, expression and shared experience. Created by a group of LGBTQ+ individuals, Emergence offers a space to come out to the wider community and to unite queer and non-queer people through creativity.
The programme invites LGBTQ+ participants and allies (aged 16+) to take part in hands-on sessions designed to build connection, confidence and solidarity.
One workshop, led by multidisciplinary artist and stained-glass tutor Bean Sawyer, invites participants to create their own stained-glass lantern. In this relaxed session, attendees will learn how to cut glass and construct a three-dimensional lantern using the copper-foil and soldering technique. Participants can choose from provided patterns or develop their own design, selecting colours that reflect their personal style. No previous experience is needed, and all materials are supplied.
Another workshop, led by queer artist, academic and art psychotherapist Emily Laurens, explores the symbolism of pennants — flags traditionally used by ships and the military to communicate identity and meaning. Participants will “queer” the pennant, creating fabric flags that represent their lives and identities, carrying messages of solidarity and unity. The session includes simple sewing techniques alongside fabric paints, appliqué and print.
Songwriter Anna Sherratt will lead an accessible workshop focused on writing lyrics inspired by themes of resilience and queer life. Open to both experienced musicians and complete beginners, the session offers practical approaches to crafting meaningful, memorable songs in a supportive and welcoming environment.
Emergence will culminate in a special gathering event on Friday 28 March. Emergence: The Gathering marks the closing of the Queer Creations season and celebrates the returning of the light.
This final event offers an opportunity to come together, reflect and share the creative work developed throughout the season — including posters, flags, lanterns and original songs. Afternoon tea will be served from 5.30pm, with optional tea dancing in the Garden Room. At 7pm, a Lantern Lighting Ritual will take place, featuring original songs created during the Emergence: Rising Embers workshop — a collective moment of reflection, celebration and renewal.
Emergence is rooted in the belief that creativity can foster understanding, visibility and community connection. By opening these workshops to both LGBTQ+ people and allies, the programme aims to build bridges, celebrate diverse identities and create shared spaces for expression.
Book: span-arts.org.uk
Please contact info@spanarts.org to discuss your accessibility needs.
