Left Bank inspires residents to reflect and connect with ‘doodle-stretch’ Burley Park project.

Situated in the heart of Hyde Park, Left Bank Leeds is a progressive space for creativity, culture and community, for everyone to enjoy.

In Summer 2024, Left Bank delivered a parks-based programme in neighbouring Burley Park, providing residents with opportunities to pursue their regularly scheduled activity in a new, green environment. Activity on offer included therapeutic ‘doodle art’ sessions and park yoga.

Ninety-six residents jumped at the opportunity to enjoy the wellbeing benefits offered by practising yoga in a natural environment. Instructor Rosie delivered popular adult-only sessions, which allowed participants to relax and reflect as they practised yoga in the sunshine. She then delivered more intimate family-focused sessions, which provided parents with access to a child-friendly space to practise yoga and offered families quiet time to connect and learn new skills together.

Meanwhile, forty residents joined Edek of Doodle Chat for regular art sessions in the park. Inspired by the urban greenery of the park, participants were encouraged to study their surroundings, whilst developing their sketching skills and offering companionship to fellow group members.

‘Just to say this was fabulous, great to be in the open air with a group of likeminded yogis. Do it again!’

‘It was a day well spent. It was nice and sunny, we found a bench to set up, started doodling and we had a chat about different subjects. Animals, politics, Plans for summer etc. I enjoyed the company and colouring I did which complimented the sunny weather.’

“Facilitating Doodle Chat in the Park was a great experience. From the peer group supporting someone who really needed a safe space, to singing songs from the Sound of Music in the sunshine, these sessions were a great way to reach a new audience. A worthwhile project that will only gain in popularity if run again.”

This activity was funded by Love Leeds Parks through our Community Parks Activity Grants scheme. This scheme was made possible by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and with thanks to National Lottery Players.