The project began with a simple but powerful question: What connects us?
Together, the group explored different kinds of connection – to ourselves, to other people, and to the wider world. Through discussion and reflection, they identified key themes including hope, creativity, the future, nature, shared interests, voice, and community.
As conversations developed, the young people created a shared list of things that help bring people together:
· Shared politics and values
· Shared goals
· Shared spaces, including youth spaces and third spaces
· Food, cooking, and kitchens
· Hobbies such as music, art, and film
· Sport and mental wellbeing
· Communication through social media and shared experiences
· Cultural exchange and learning from one another
· Looking ahead to the future and connecting with nature and the Earth
· Human connection through touch and words
With these ideas in mind, the group began exploring how connection could be represented visually. Everyday objects and symbols soon emerged as inspiration: pencils, books, paint, flowers, trees, hearts, the Earth, microphones, mobile phones, and more.
Then it was time to start drawing.
Each young person created an icon that represented a form of connection that felt meaningful to them. As they worked, conversations continued about shared interests, communication, and the different ways relationships and communities are built.
As the collection of drawings grew, attention turned to the overall design. The group discussed colours, patterns, backgrounds, and, most importantly, the message they wanted their artwork to share.
Many ideas were suggested, but one phrase stood out above the rest:
Same Sky.
The phrase captured exactly what the group wanted to communicate. Despite our differences, we are all connected. We share experiences, communities, hopes, and futures. We coexist on the same planet and, wherever we are, we all look up at the same sky.
The finished artwork is a celebration of connection, belonging, and the power of young people's voices.
'Same Sky' is on display at The Horsfall and at 56 Tib Street, M4 1LG until 19th June 2026. Go and check it out now! (You can even grab a copy of the artwork as a poster or postcard at The Horsfall or Afflecks! All proceeds go to help fund 'The Future is Ours Festival'!
A huge thank you to 42nd Street and The Horsfall for the opportunity to have the Creative Influencers’ artwork displayed across Manchester, and for making copies of their design available as posters and postcards. We are incredibly proud to see their creativity, ideas, and message shared with the wider community.
