On Thursday 16 April, Heart of Glass will host their annual gathering; With For About at Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot, bringing people together to think, talk and reflect on the urgent questions shaping collaborative and socially engaged art – and the role of artists in civil society.
With For About (WFA) 2026 is for practitioners who make art with children and young people – including artists, youth workers, play workers, teachers, producers, and funders. This is a great opportunity for Knowsley-based artists working with children and young people to connect with peers, reflect on their practice and build new relationships.
This will be a reflective, practice-based space, exploring questions together, experimenting with ways of working, and sharing learning as it unfolds.
With For About 2026 is designed as a day for shared thinking, reflection, and participation.
Expect:
- A welcoming, practice-based space for experimentation and shared learning
- Time to explore collaboration, creative methods, and questions around working with children and young people 0-25
- A small, intimate gathering that encourages creative forms of participation
- Sessions led by freelance artists and practitioners
- A mix of playful activities, workshops, panels, and discussions
- Opportunities to reflect together on process, community, and creative practice
A series of workshops and panels will be curated and hosted by artist, educator and strategist Sarah Bailey. Sarah is interested in community, play, learning and belonging. Her aim is to reveal overlooked narratives, uncover new ideas and imagine stories through conversation and collaboration with people, places, and organisations. Sarah works both with children and young people, and the adults that work with them.
For details of all panel and workshop contributors visit: www.heartofglass.org.uk/WithForAbout
Heart of Glass are offering a tiered ticketing system, along with concessions and limited bursaries available for artists, freelancers, and independent practitioners.
With For About is funded by Arts Council England and Paul Hamlyn Foundation with additional support from Arts Council of Ireland and Create Ireland.
Part of This Place, This Stage, an Arts Council England–supported Place Partnership with Knowsley Council, Heart of Glass, Adlib, Kirkby Gallery, Make CIC, and Shakespeare North Playhouse.
Find out more and book now at:
https://www.heartofglass.org.uk/project-and-events/events/wfa2026
