Ardour Academy’s ‘Butterfly Soup’ project started during the pandemic to bring LGBTQIA+ members of the Cardiff community together. Each session offers a range of creative activities, from movement to visual arts, crafts, and poetry. The project brings together both experienced and amateur artists who all get involved in the facilitation and development of sessions. Participants from earlier sessions now help out with delivery and inspire others.   

“Butterfly Soup is truly a one of a kind creative project that keeps evolving,” says Sara Sirati of Ardour Academy. “It’s led by the community, and those who facilitate are either regular participants who take turns, or queer members of the community with particular interest in our ethos: tackling isolation, creating inclusive and affordable creative opportunities and safe spaces.

We now welcome deaf and hard of hearing participants and offer BSL communication support at every gathering. We’re also aware that 50% of those who attend identify as having a disability, are neurodivergent, and a large number of our regular attendees are from a Global Majority background. Butterfly Soup is a safe, creatively curious, and non-judgmental space where facilitators and participants have the opportunity to explore new ideas.”

You can find out more via their website or follow them on Facebook.

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