Explore African culture at these special events  

The events have been organised by Hartlepool Borough Council in partnership with TransformersHPL, a Hartlepool organisation working to promote community togetherness which has been nominated for a BBC Make a Difference Award.

Together they have created a display in Hartlepool Art Gallery showcasing African arts and crafts. Come and learn more behind the history and meanings of different items like Kente Cloth - the traditional fabric of Ghana - or the connection between naming traditions and jewellery.

A view of the display of African arts and crafts in Hartlepool Art Gallery.

Also on an African theme, the Art Gallery will be hosting a celebration for families this Saturday 19th October from 1pm to 3pm – come and enjoy music workshops and storytelling sessions.

Learn more about the African style of drum – the Djembe - and its significance and meaning. By the end of the workshop you will be able to play one rhythm with ease!

Then on Tuesday 29th October from 11am to 3pm in the Art Gallery there will be music, storytelling and games – learn about drumming and listen to African stories told in a traditional way. This event is aimed at teenagers and adults.

TransformersHPL will be there to provide information and answer any questions and there will also be stalls with items for sale.

All the above events are open to people of all ages and are FREE. There’s no need to book – just turn up.

Councillor Pamela Hargreaves, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Economic Growth and Regeneration Committee, said: “There is a lot more that unites us than divides us and as civic leaders we have a duty to encourage people to learn about each other’s customs, cultures and history. This is a great opportunity to start to do that and I would urge people to come along to these events.”

Hartlepool Art Gallery is open Tuesdays to Saturdays 10am – 5pm and entry is free.