People 1st Lurgan, in collaboration with the renowned local graffiti artists Thick as Thieves, transformed a Monday into a vibrant celebration of fun, creativity, and teamwork. Participants engaged in an exhilarating graffiti workshop, guided by the expertise of award-winning artists Helen Levy (aka Kanine) and Gary Real Rowe.
Thick as Thieves Graffiti fundamentals
The workshop, held on Monday March 31st, provided a unique opportunity for People 1st students to learn the fundamentals of graffiti art under the tutelage of Levy and Rowe, who operate their studio and shop from Mount Zion House, Lurgan. Participants were divided into three teams, each tasked with creating collaborative artworks based on distinct themes: Egypt and Space, Ocean and Flowers, and Jungle and Mythology. Then they set about creating their artwork using some of the techniques shared by Gary and Helen earlier in the workshop! It was a great way to express themselves and start to put into practice some of these new skills!
Creative Energy and teamwork!
The focus was not only on artistic expression but also on fostering teamwork. Each team had to brainstorm, design, and execute their vision, making critical decisions about composition and colour palettes. The collaborative effort resulted in a stunning array of murals that showcased the participants’ newfound skills and creative flair. As you can see below- each graffiti artboard was so different as the input of each individual was shared on the canvas! They did fantastically well, and created some beautiful vibrant pieces of work- well done all! Everyone got involved in the workshop and there was a real excitement and energy around the place! It is always great to try out something different and learn something new, to add to your skillset and they surely did this!!
Thick as Thieves Graffiti Workshop Winners
After a spirited competition, the team tackling the “Egypt and Space” theme emerged as the winner, impressing the judges with their innovative design and skilful execution.
Thank you Thick as Thieves for this creative workshop!
As part of the Skills for Life and Work qualification, our students take Employability and Personal Development classes—and it was through Employability Tutor Sarah that this exciting collaboration came to life!
We’re always looking for ways to connect our students with the local community and give them opportunities to express their creativity through hands-on experiences like this. This was their first-ever graffiti workshop, and they absolutely loved it! We can’t wait to do more!
“This workshop was a fantastic experience. It was incredible to see how quickly everyone embraced the art form and worked together to create such impressive pieces. We are grateful to Helen and Gary from Thick as Thieves for sharing their passion and expertise.”
Sarah Champ, Employability Coordinator from People 1st Lurgan
Engaging in art isn’t just about creativity—it’s a powerful tool for self-development and well-being. Taking a break from traditional lessons to explore something new helps students build confidence, develop problem-solving skills, and express themselves in a unique way. Activities like this also encourage teamwork, reduce stress, and improve focus, making it an incredibly valuable experience for both personal and professional growth
It’s always a pleasure to see the creativity that emerges when people are given the opportunity to express themselves. The teamwork and enthusiasm displayed by the participants were truly inspiring. We are delighted to have partnered with People 1st Lurgan to bring this unique artistic experience to the community.”
Helen Levy from Thick as Thieves
Using creative art to bring people together
This event highlights the power of art to bring people together, encourage collaboration, and unlock hidden talents. People 1st Lurgan and Thick as Thieves look forward to future collaborations that continue to enrich the local community through creativity and artistic expression. Thank you to Sarah from Lurgan for organising this and to the students for being so engaged with the art, and to Helen and Gary from Thick as Thieves, for sharing their time and creative experience with us- what a day!!!
Further information
Visit https://www.thickasthievesstreetwear.com/ to find out more about their creative endeavours and street wear!
If you are from the greater Lurgan area, leaving school this year or have left last year then we can help you get get qualified in an NVQ subject of your choice and also gain GCSE equivalents in essential skills such as Maths, English and ICT as part of our Skills for Life and Work courses:
Visit our website: https://bit.ly/3agfqOT
Check out our Brochure : https://bit.ly/4hALMQR
OR
Apply now: https://bit.ly/2VFK9L1
