The Men's Group Tower
The Community team at Glasgow Science Centre had the privilege of collaborating with the talented Men’s Group at the Hidden Garden to develop a community-curated exhibit.
With a deep commitment to fostering engagement, inclusivity, and lifelong learning within our local communities, we worked closely with the Men’s Group to empower and amplify their voices. The result is an exhibit meticulously crafted through creative efforts, reflecting their stories, experiences, and history.
Through this exhibit, we showcase the rich cultural heritage and diverse narratives that enrich our society.
About the Hidden Gardens
Nestled in the heart of Glasgow's Southside, the Hidden Gardens is a tranquil oasis that serves as a haven for communities, creativity, and connection with nature. This vibrant green space offers a sanctuary for people to unwind, learn, and cultivate a sense of belonging. The Hidden Gardens celebrates diversity and the spirit of inclusion, encouraging visitors to explore their connection with nature and each other.
About Men’s Group
Men's Group plays a vital role in promoting health and well-being. It offers a supportive space to openly discuss thoughts, emotions and experiences whilst nurturing mental resilience and creating meaningful connections.
Through engaging in gardening and art, the group has discovered the transformative power of nature, fostering a sense of purpose and accomplishment. Their work in the creation of the exhibit has given them the chance to harness the therapeutic benefits of nature and provided a sense of belonging.
I haven't done art for a very long time, 32 years. I thought I'd be no use at this, but I tried it, and it worked out OK. So, I thought I'd like to try some more art.
Men's Group Participant
I made a tree to communicate the Hidden Gardens to the community. (Men's group) got me out and more sociable and interactive with friends and I've met a lot of friends, it's an amazing place to be
Men's Group Participant
I've been coming to the Men's Group for 4 years. I was curious about all the activities they did. They have become a very creative and productive group. It provides a social life as well for people.
Men's Group Participant
It was just the idea of starting from nothing-and then we put ideas together as a group and came up with something- which turned out to be quite creative.
Men's Group Participant
The Men's Group Tower showcases these 6 amazing creations
Trams – Showcasing the history of the Hidden Gardens which was, at one time, part of Coplawhill tram depot. Now, the tramway is a renowned art venue and the surrounding space has become the Hidden Gardens.
Events – Celebrating the wide range of events held in the gardens from music and art to weddings and celebrations. The space has become a vital part of the local community's culture.
The men – Representing the importance of men’s spaces for health and wellbeing. The men’s group find solace in each other's company within the peaceful setting of the gardens and communal space, 'The Boiler House'.
Chimney/history - Showcasing the rich and vibrant history of the tramway through photo collages and pottery.
Xylotheque – a wooden structure showcasing different types of wood that stand tall within the gardens.
Seasons – Showcasing the beautiful changes experienced within the gardens each year.
The Men's Group Tower will be on display at The Tramway until January 2024
Song by a Men's Group participant
Sunflower Song
(Forever the Mid-Summers Day)
Golden Sunflower soaring high,
Honey-lemon waves, petal the blue sky,
Orange warm, spreads safe the new day,
A call for all children, ‘Come Out and Play’.
Round and Round, Dance the Circle of Light,
Ring ‘a’ Ring the Bells of Mid-Summers Delight.
All things bright, all colourful, Angels sing,
A time for celebration, embrace the child within.
Towering Sunflower, anoint the Celestial Feast,
Spread the Gift of Life, a New World of Love and Peace.
Shine forever warming, always giving, forever true,
The Children are the key: Revive, Re-live, Dance a Song for You.
Alas, the night returns, we rest, we sleep, we may pray,
Hearts a-glow, smile sweet dreams, remembering the special day.
Sunflower settles an orange evening's sky, a last display,
Breathe deep, safe and sound, Forever the Long Mid-Summers’ Day.
Poem by a Men's Group participant
Where Atoms been, going
To think
The Big Bang, dinosaurs and all the
Wars. The lot of History,
The next buildings, The air we
Breathe. The food we eat. Recycled, by
Natural causes. Probably atoms
Shared, is too big a number, to think.
Atoms been?
Broken Hearts
My heart beats and beats
Every day it goes on without reality
Hugs will pull at the strings
Hoping to damage me
I will go on without care
Until the myopathies, my built
In defects ends me.
Acknowledgements
With thanks to the Hidden Gardens Men's Group. If you'd like to know more about the Men's Group contact [email protected]
More information about the Hidden Gardens can be found on their website
The Men's Group Tower will be on display at The Tramway until January 2024
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