Rowan is a Cambridge based arts centre and charity, where artists and craftspeople work with learning-disabled adults. Using the medium of art, we provide a safe, creative and unique environment where students thrive and grow artistically as well as in their own abilities, confidence and self-esteem. Rowan seeks to raise the abilities of learning-disabled people and foster their participation as active and equal citizens.

Over 70 people with learning disabilities come to Rowan over the course of a week. The charity is open 50 weeks of the year, and students can remain at Rowan for as long as they choose. We are committed to approaching life as an adventure, with humour, passion, optimism and fun; ensuring learning disabled people are treated fairly and have equal opportunities.

Rowan is a vibrant and active part of the art community in Cambridge. The charity has an excellent reputation and is considered to be a forward-looking organisation, committed to developing new opportunities in partnership with individuals and organisations. We work with a range of partners locally and regionally to offer wider opportunities to our students.

Description of Rowan’s artwork appearing in CirculART
A cascade of flowers; formed from paper, cardboard, textiles, wires, ceramics, plastic and wood, that will flow up and over a piece of furniture.

Why Rowan chooses to use repurposed materials
We enjoy the challenge of re-inventing waste materials, with the knowledge that we are making a small contribution to the collective effort to control waste.