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From family support, fitness classes and learning to art exhibitions, festivals and talks, our activities are wide and far reaching.
At Coin Street, we believe strong communities are built through connection, creativity and care. Faces and Fabrics brought those values to life by bringing together people aged 7 to 80 to create a collaborative community quilt celebrating identity, belonging and shared experience.
Led by Youth and Community Senior Coordinator Nishi Begum, the project engaged 65 people in creative workshops, with more than 80 residents, volunteers, staff and neighbours contributing to the finished quilt. Each self-portrait panel tells a personal story, creating a vibrant artwork that reflects the diversity of the Coin Street community.
The greatest achievement wasn't simply the quilt itself, but the confidence, friendships and sense of belonging that grew as it took shape. Many participants arrived feeling unsure of their creative abilities, with some having never sewn before. Through Nishi's encouragement and a welcoming environment, people discovered new skills, expressed themselves creatively and found the confidence to contribute.
One of the project's most powerful outcomes was the connection it created across generations. Children and young people worked alongside older residents, sharing stories, learning from one another and building friendships. These conversations helped reduce isolation, strengthen relationships and create a genuine sense of community.
The workshops also became a space for reflection, healing and remembrance. One participant returned to complete a portrait of her beloved dog after it passed away, while another found comfort during a particularly difficult period in their life. The quilt also includes the final artwork created by one resident before they died, ensuring their contribution remains part of Coin Street's story for years to come.
Reflecting on the experience, one participant said:
"I felt truly privileged to take part in the Faces and Fabrics community quilt project. At first, I was surprisingly anxious about creating my own panel. Thankfully, Nishi noticed my hesitation and kindly sat down with me for a chat. The opportunity to talk with people of all ages while working on our panels was invaluable. Seeing my panel included in the quilt and featured in the exhibition was a profound honour."
The completed quilt was unveiled at the Coin Street neighbourhood centre alongside other community textile artwork, giving participants the opportunity to celebrate their achievements with family, friends and neighbours.
One visitor reflected:
"It was truly an honour and privilege to witness such a powerful community event. The atmosphere was filled with connection, creativity, curiosity and care."
Today, the quilt is much more than a piece of textile art. It is a lasting symbol of the people, stories and relationships that make the Coin Street neighbourhood such a special place. Every stitch represents someone's journey, and together they tell the story of a community where everyone has a place and every contribution matters.
This project was made possible thanks to funding from Arts Council England, in collaboration with Coin Street's Over 50s Art Group, ESEA Unseen and the wider community.
