At Magic Carpet’s Story into Art group, we use storytelling as a starting point for creativity. Each session, the group listens to a story and then creates artwork inspired by what they’ve heard — building imagination, confidence and connection in a supportive space.
When Matthew joined Story into Art in 2024, he was one of the newest — and youngest — members of a long-established group. We knew that could feel daunting.
“At first I wasn’t sure what to draw. Drawing from imagination felt hard. I needed some encouragement to get started.”
Matthew initially attended with his mum supporting him. Creating a safe, welcoming environment was key. We spent time explaining how the sessions worked and reassured him that there was no right or wrong way to respond to a story.
Gradually, something shifted.
“Now I fill whole pages of my sketchbook. I draw in pencil first and then colour everything in with felt tips — they’re my favourite.”
Over time, Matthew’s confidence has grown significantly. He now attends independently, with his mum dropping him off and collecting him afterwards — giving her valuable time for herself while knowing he is settled and supported. In sessions, we’ve seen Matthew become a confident and valued group member. He chats with others, shares jokes, and has even taken turns reading aloud with encouragement. While he occasionally feels overwhelmed or tired, gentle reassurance from staff and volunteers helps him regulate and re-engage.
“I like coming to the group. I feel proud of my drawings.”
Matthew’s artwork has been celebrated beyond the weekly sessions. His stag beetle illustration, inspired by Five Minute Nature Stories, was featured in the Story into Art Calendar 2025. His Oompa Loompa drawing, inspired by Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, was exhibited at The Creative Space Exhibition in October 2024. He has also taken part in collaborative printmaking workshops and social events with The Pelican Project — embracing not only artmaking but singing, dancing and community connection.
At Magic Carpet, we believe creativity thrives through patience, inclusivity and imagination. Matthew’s journey reflects how the right environment — one that nurtures independence at an individual pace — can transform uncertainty into confidence.
For Matthew, Story into Art is now more than a group.
“It’s somewhere I can go on my own. Somewhere I belong.”