
In spring 2009 the Eastgate launched a two-year community arts programme, supported by an award of £20,000 from Scottish Borders LEADER.
The programme, running from April 2009 till March 2011, will involve individuals and communities across the Borders whose access to the arts is relatively limited. A series of projects is being developed which aim to show how creative activities can make a difference to the lives of those who take part - stimulating imaginations, introducing new skills, building experience and confidence, and enjoying good company in the process.
The first project, Haven, was devised by the Eastgate's project co-ordinator Mandy Durkin working in partnership with visual artist Claire Blyth.
The second project, Heading Upstream, was developed by pupils at Kingsland Primary School with the support of Eastgate Outreach Co-ordinator Mandy Durkin along with artists from Puppet Lab and musicians from Nomad Beat.