Create & Connect: A FREE 10wk Art Journaling Course

Location:

The Connect Centre, 227 Gosbecks Rd, Colchester, Essex, CO2 9JT

Date:

Tues 13th October 2026 - Tues 15th December 2026 (4:30pm to 6:30pm)

Registration Fee:

FREE

What is Create & Connect?

Create & Connect is a FREE 10‑week creative wellbeing project, designed around art journaling, to give young people a gentle, supportive space to explore identity, expression and community at their own pace.

Open to up to 10 autistic young people aged 12-18 (formal diagnosis not required), the course welcomes participants from all backgrounds, identities and experiences, and we especially welcome applications from those in the LGBTQIA+ community.

We guide participants through creative journaling, the heart of the project, while offering a choice of other calming and expressive activities. Using comforting materials and sensory-friendly approaches, young people can explore emotions, creativity and self-expression in whatever way feels right for them.

No previous art experience is needed. All activities are designed to encourage creativity, self-expression and personal reflection in a safe, supportive and inclusive environment.

“…It has allowed me to express myself through art…” – Savannah

What will I do in this course?

Discover your identity, express your creativity and explore what makes you unique through a range of fun art techniques and reflective activities.

Week 1: Getting Started – Create and personalise your journal, explore collage techniques, and reflect on what makes you special.

Week 2: Self-Portraits – Express your identity through art by creating a self-portrait using drawing, collage, or mixed media.

Week 3: Belonging & Connection – Explore family, friendships, community and the people who inspire you while learning creative spraying techniques.

Week 4: Thoughts & Feelings – Make decorative journal envelopes and create word collages inspired by ideas and messages that resonate with you.

Week 5: Create Your Character – Design a superhero or fantasy animal and explore strengths, individuality, self-expression and imagination.

Week 6: Out of This World – Experiment with marbling techniques and imagine a world where everyone belongs, whether real or fantastical.

Week 7: Celebrating Courage – Learn watercolour techniques while reflecting on challenges you’ve overcome and what helps you feel safe and calm.

Week 8-10: Looking Ahead – Celebrate your journaling journey, reflect on your growth, and explore your hopes and dreams for the future.

“…Helped me to open up and chat to others…” – Jonathan

Who will be leading Create & Connect?

Led by Autism Anglia staff with lived experience and informed by autistic perspectives and other protected characteristics, every session at the Connect Centre in Colchester is intentionally crafted to feel safe, relatable, and affirming.

How can I apply for Create & Connect?

Click here to apply

Please note:

Applying for Create & Connect does not confirm your place, those who are allocated a place will be contacted individually, confirming.
This is a 10 week course for a maximum of 10 participants and so by registering your interest you confirm that you will be able to attend the full 10 weeks, starting Tuesday 13th October 2026.
Any participants who are under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

Create & Connect is supported by the Boshier Grant Scheme administered by the National Autistic Society.