Emerald Explorers

Emerald Explorers is a programme of Libraries, Arts and Heritage activities which takes inspiration from nature, the four seasons and green spaces in Gateshead.

The programme recognizes that time outdoors in green spaces, taking part in arts and creative activities, gardening, socialising, and increasing exercise, all help us to feel better and improve our wellbeing.  

As part of the programme Emerald Explorer backpacks were devised and created by professional artists and available for families to borrow from libraries just like a story sack or book. Inside each backpack there are seasonal activity sheets with ideas and materials to get creative based on different themes, 'Water', 'Sticks and stones', 'Seeds, leaves and Trees' and 'Bugs and beasties', all related to the great outdoors!

The activities were devised by artists Josie Brookes, Jyl Friggens, Elizabeth Kane and Paul Merrick all of whom led drop-in workshops in the libraries to encourage and explore the creative possibilities.   
 

Case studies

Seasons at Parkhead School
Writing the Outdoors: Cardinal Hume's Emerald Explorers 
Take a closer look: bringing the outside in with Portobello School