Jim is an Ambassador for  Sporting Masters, an innovative sports programme aimed at educating youngsters in health, fitness, behavioural attitudes and the further development of personal self esteem. In conjunction with them he has developed a series of Sportart Workshops working with young people facing  a range of difficulties and problems including, Poverty, Addiction issues, Domestic Violence, Racism, Bereavement, Bullying, Sectarianism, Gender Issues, Disability, Offending, etc.

The aims of the workshops are numerous. Sport is used to create an interest in art and to create an atmosphere where creative ideas can be shared openly and the more complex issues can be discussed safely. From an artistic perspective, the basics of drawing and painting are taught giving the participants the opportunity to work closely with real artists and with professional artists materials. The workshops also aim to provide a setting where participants can have the confidence to share their creative ideas openly in an environment where their ideas will be treated with respect. Teamwork is also an important factor of the workshop setting. A variety of simple art and drama-based exercises are used to help create group identity in a real fun way, while also laying the foundations for creative thinking

Jim and others involved work alongside Education, Social Work and Voluntary Agency staff to deliver the Workshops.It is important to note that teaching art is not the sole purpose of these sessions, the art is used as a catalyst for exploring specific issues within each group.

The Sportart Workshops have been Sponsored by BBC Children In Need. To date groups have created a strong body of artwork, which can be quite powerful and thought provoking and feedback from agencies and parents has been very positive, two MSPs have requested that the work of the project be exhibited at the Scottish Parliament.

For more information visit  http://www.fairsportingmasters.co.uk