Queer Crafternoon with Zesty’s Collective
What should participants expect?
Join us for a relaxed and informal afternoon of creativity and community.
Whether you consider yourself to have no artistic talent, are a budding artist or just dabble in crafts every so often, you are very welcome to join. We will be creating on our own and with each other in a calm atmosphere. You are welcome to come for as little or as long as you like.
Who is this event for?
Any people of LGBTQIA+ or questioning identities are welcome to join us! Under 16s are welcome with parents or carers. Safe spaces code of conduct will be in place.
We recognise that you might need different things from this event, be it creating connections and hearing about others experiences, having a chance to reflect on your own queer experiences and needs, or simply have protected space to craft and use your hands. Whichever one it is, we hope you join us and find it.
Who are Zesty’s Collective?
We're a group of Nottingham based LGBTQIA+ people wanting to explore alternative events which hold queerness at the heart, away from noise, substances, need for spending or nightlife. We previously hosted workshops 'Building Queerville' at Nottingham Contemporary, Green Hustle and more - you can find our a little bit more about these via our Zesty's Collective Instagram.
This event is taking place as part of The January Challenge 2024.
What is The January Challenge?
Our January events celebrate 64 Million Artists's January Challenge. 31 creative prompts over 31 days, each designed by different people and communities across the UK - this series of challenges is open to anyone to get involved in.
At each of our crafternoons, we'll be taking inspiration from the January Challenge, focusing on a handful of the creative prompts relevant to our community, the space we're in and the materials we have. We've been fortunate enough to be able to set one of these challenges too which will feature in all the crafternoons!
Find out more about The January Challenge and sign up here.
Useful information
Will there be refreshments and snacks?
Bottomless hot drinks and juices will be available for free. We'll have some homemade vegan cake and biscuits up for grabs too! Let us know of any dietary requirements and allergies when you book your space.
Do I need to bring anything?
No, we will provide all the arts & crafts materials you need including card, pens, plasticine, clay, and collage materials. You are more than welcome to bring your own materials as well as any art projects you are working on. Feel free to bring a friend, relative or partner/partners who are allies, but please let us know as we only have limited space! Come as you are.
How do I get there?
By foot, the venue is 9 mins walk from Nottingham Train Station, and 15mins away from Trent Bridge.
By car, parking around AMC Gardens is limited with a few bays available here. Paid onstreet parking is available closer to Meadows Way, 5 mins walk away. Blue badge parking is available on Awkright Walk from the Portland Centre end.
By public transport, the closest tram stop is Queens Walk, 8mins away from the vanue. The closest bus stop is Wilford Crescent for buses 11,11A and 11C just 1min walk from the venue.
By Superpedestrian e-scooter, parking is available 2 mins walk from the venue.
By Lime e-bike, parking is available 13 mins walk from the venue.
By bike, you can use the garden railings to lock up your bike.
Is this event happening rain or shine?
Yes, although we're located at the beautiful AMC Gardens, we will be inside (in a warm heated room). We hope that you can join us whatever the weather as long as it is safe for you to travel.
Talk accessibility to me!
We have an access budget! Here are some examples of how we could support you:
.. travel costs
.. childcare costs (side note: AMC Gardens runs a free family session on Saturday 10.30am – 1pm)
.. COVID test costs
.. interpreters
.. creative prompts written in your language
.. support with carer costs
As you book your space, there will be a question of what support could help you come to the space and enjoy the events - let us know your thoughts there and we'll be in touch.
The Meadows area is flat. The AMC Gardens building itself is accessible by a ramp and has an accessible toilet inside. If you want to venture outside and take a look at the gardens, the paths there are flat and wheelchair-width - note that paths have small stones.
We'll have some ear foamies available if you're audio sensitive, and fidget toys if you want to keep your hands busy with things other than craft materials.
You're welcome to self-manage and take breaks as and when you need them - you're welcome to explore the gardens too, these close at 4pm.
I'm feeling unsure about coming..
You are welcome to bring someone with you who is an LGBTQIA+ ally. Alternatively, get in touch with us - we can say hello before the day so there is a familiar face in the space, or we can meet you a little bit before the event if you don't fancy walking in alone.
Got other questions?
DM us on Instagram @zestyscollective or email zestyscollective@gmail.com. You can also note questions as you're booking your space.