Eugene Sobers was introduced to the Whitworth after getting in touch with US artist, Suzanne Lacy, a pioneer of social practice over five decades.  Working together to re-purpose the Oakland Projects (1999-2001) with local sixth forms, Manchester School of Art and youth groups for a Manchester setting to consider youth priorities. Findings from the project were presented at the What Kind of City Youth Summit March 2022 where an interest in setting up a Manchester Curriculum and a Youth Alliance was shared.  Every Thursday the Alliance Researcher is in residence, exploring what an Alliance can look like.

For the last few months, Eugene has been interviewing youth professionals to find out more about their individual approaches and why they work with young people. How do they give agency to their young people? Their interviews are on display in the Office of Arte Útil at the Whitworth, including portraits of the youth professional accompanied by audio.

The Alliance partners to date are 84 Youth, Odd Arts, MGTYouth, The Proud Place, Rekindle, Venture Arts and YLM.

84Youth @mgtyouth @the_proud_trust @rekindleschool @oddarts @venturearts_ @youngsters_lives_matter