Watercolor Workshop at Cannon Hill Park

On August 11, we held a beautiful outdoor Art Workshop at Cannon Hill Park in Birmingham — and it was a truly special and creative experience! A group of Ukrainian teens from Kryla Youth Club gathered on the green lawns of the park to try watercolor painting for the first time.

Surrounded by trees, flowers, and bright summer sun, the group quietly observed nature and tried to capture its beauty on paper. For many of them, it was their very first time holding a paintbrush — but thanks to our wonderful teacher, Liudmyla Sadova, their first landscapes came to life — simple yet successful, filled with light and the warmth of summer.

This creative workshop for Ukrainian youth in the UK was not just about painting. It gave everyone a chance to relax, reduce stress, enjoy the moment, and reconnect with themselves through nature. It became a moment of calm and inspiration — something many young refugee people need while adapting to life in a new country.

And there was more: new friendships, new experiences, and the freedom to create without pressure or judgment. Just paints, paper, a friendly group, and the wish to try something new. These kinds of events help Ukrainians in the West Midlands feel part of a community, gain confidence, and find balance.

We saw how, in just one session, young people opened up, discovered their creativity, and felt proud of their progress. It’s one more example of how art can support and unite Ukrainian teenagers in the UK.

Thanks to everyone who joined us — it truly felt magical.