Article - Easy Read below
Aisha Takes Centre Stage with Her First
Public Poetry Reading
A Member of our learning disability led action group has achieved a
remarkable personal milestone by reading her own poem aloud to a live
audience for the very first time.
Aisha grew in confidence at this year's Creative Showcase, where she proudly read a poem she had written as part of her AIM (Art in Motion) Creative Writing Group.
The performance marked a significant moment in Aisha's learning journey. Having been working hard to improve her reading skills, standing in front of a crowd and sharing her own words was something she had never imagined she could do and it took her by surprise!
The audience listened attentively as Aisha read a poem she had written herself, before rewarding her with warm applause. Her achievement was celebrated by friends in the Umbrella Choir, members of the public, support staff and fellow members of the AIM group, who have seen the dedication and determination she has shown throughout her learning.
The Creative Writing Group is part of the wider AIM programme that creates
opportunities for artists with learning disabilities to develop skills, knowledge and creativity through engaging in a range of artist-led projects. These are shared with a wide audience through exhibitions, public art showcases, partnerships, and creative collaborations. Aisha joined AIM’s Art School in 2023. The course is designed to support participants in developing their artistic skills, confidence, and understanding of art. Through the course, Aisha has made progress in both her artwork and her confidence. She has now been invited to join AIMs Supported Studios and, from September, she will be part of a new group where she will work more independently and have opportunities to exhibit her artwork.
Speaking after the event, Aisha said she heard the voice of her son, like an angel saying “just try and do it!” This gave her the confidence to share her poem. At first, Aisha said she “felt a bit weird” as she had never done it before, but happily shared that “slowly I am doing it”, and what’s more, she will be performing again at the end of the month.
Aisha’s poem is featured in “"The Everyday”" Exhibition & Book: A collective project and book, celebrating the beauty and humor found in familiar objects, ordinary moments, and daily routines. Copies are stocked at the Arnolfini Bookshop.
The Creative Showcase was part of learning disability week, which highlights the talents, creativity and achievements of people with learning disabilities, giving individuals the opportunity to perform, exhibit their work and celebrate their personal successes. If you would like to get involved in a future showcase, get in touch with us at sendawelcome@gmail.com.
Aisha's story is a powerful reminder that learning is a journey, and with encouragement, opportunity and perseverance, people can achieve things they once thought were beyond their reach. Her first public reading was more than just a performance—it was a celebration of courage, creativity and growing confidence.
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The AIM (Art in Motion) Creative Writing Group provides a welcoming space where people can express themselves through poetry, stories and creative writing while developing their confidence and communication skills. The group meets weekly to develop writing skills and respond to current contemporary exhibitions. Being based at Arnolfini, the group is also set to play an important role in shaping the language used around exhibitions, as part of the Creatives in Residence partnership work. The group will work to ensure accessibility remains central to how Arnolfini’s work is shared with the public.
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Aisha Read Her Poem to an Audience
Aisha did something new.
Aisha is a member of SENDaWelcome's My Community Group.
She read one of her poems to an audience.
It was the first time she had ever read in front of lots of people.
Aisha wrote her own poem.
Aisha goes to the AIM Creative Writing Group.
At the group she:
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Writes poems.
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Learns to read.
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Builds her confidence.
Aisha read at the Creative Showcase.
Aisha read her poem at the Creative Showcase.
Lots of people came to watch.
Everyone listened carefully.
When Aisha finished, everyone clapped.
Aisha was brave.
Aisha said she heard the voice of her son saying:
"Just try and do it!"
This helped her feel brave.
After reading her poem, Aisha said:
"I felt a bit weird."
She had never done it before.
Then she smiled and said:
"Slowly I am doing it."
Aisha's poem is in a book.
Aisha's poem is in a book called 'The Everyday'.
The book celebrates everyday life.
People can buy the book at the Arnolfini Bookshop.
Learning Disability Week
The Creative Showcase was part of Learning Disability Week.
Learning Disability Week celebrates:
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People's talents.
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Creativity.
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Performing.
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Achievements.