Your Story, Your Art

A new creative programme for teens
Led by Open The Box Arts (13+)
Monday 6pm-8pm

Your Story, Your Art!

A creative programme for teens aimed at bring young people together to amplify their voices and tell their stories about our town.

Over three months, we’re bringing together a crew of young people from across Helston to co-create a workshop programme that you shape and lead. Think zine-making, storytelling, art, writing, and more — using professional materials, working with brilliant artists, and making something real together. The programme will end with a sharing and exhibition at The Basement on Saturday 13 June. 

No pressure. No auditions. Just good people, good creative work, and a place where you belong.

Want in? Sign up here

For Parents and Carers

The Basement is a neutral, welcoming space in Helston town centre — not attached to any school or existing group — where young people aged 11–18 can meet, create, and build new friendships.

This pilot project uses high-quality creative workshops to support confidence, wellbeing, and self-expression. Young people aren’t just participants — they help shape the programme itself, giving them a genuine voice and a real sense of ownership.

Led by professional artists and makers, workshops are inclusive, safe, and designed to bring together young people from different backgrounds around shared creative goals.

This group will meet on a mixture of Saturday mornings and Monday evenings.

This is a pilot project. What we learn will inform a longer 18-month programme that we hope to secure funding for. Your young person’s experience and ideas will help shape what comes next.

What do I need to know?

• Who is The Basement for?
  The Basement isn’t just another youth centre – it’s the space you asked for, designed by you, built for you. The space is primarily for 13-18 year olds. Your basement. Your rules. Your future starts here.

• I need dropping off in a car. Where?
  The Basement is in Trengrouse Way pay and display car park.

• Do I have to book?
  We have a limited capacity and booking means we can guarantee you a space. You can still turn up on the day and, if we have room, you’ll be able to come in.

• What is access like?
  We have level, step-free access from the car park into the building as well as accessible toilets. If you have additional access needs please contact us on jonathan@lovehelston.co.uk or drop in.

• Where is The Basement?
  We are in the basement of Helston Gateway (the former Budgens supermarket building) next to The Parade and in Trengrouse Way car park.

• Where can I find out more about The Basement?
  On our website at www.lovehelston.co.uk or by contacting Jonathan at jonathan@lovehelston.co.uk

• Will you be taking photos and video?
  We often take photos so let everyone you’re booking tickets for know this. These photos, films and recordings may be used at any time in print and online for evaluation, promotion or in connection with other projects. If you would prefer to not be in photos please let staff at The Basement know.