The magical Ashton shop inspiring confidence through creativity

In the heart of Ashton-under-Lyne, a unique community company named Phantasmagoria is making waves by harnessing the power of art to inspire and transform lives.

Founded by Ann Gilligan, the Creative Director of Phantasmagoria Magical Travel Emporium, the organisation has become a haven for individuals seeking creative activities in an inspiring and immersive space.

Phantasmagoria Magical Travel Emporium

Ann Gilligan, an artist with a passion for fostering creativity, shares her vision for Phantasmagoria, saying, “I wanted to create a space where people can get involved in high-quality creative activities in a nice, inspiring place.”

Inspired by literacy projects in America, Ann took the initiative to turn her vision into reality.

In 2019, Phantasmagoria secured funding for wellbeing workshops and received support from the Arts Council to establish their enchanting space in a beautiful Victorian arcade in Ashton.

Surviving the Pandemic

However, as fate would have it, the COVID-19 pandemic struck, posing significant challenges to their community space.

Undeterred, Phantasmagoria pivoted to continue offering well-being workshops and support to the community during these trying times.

The core of Phantasmagoria’s mission is to work with individuals facing various challenges, such as poor mental health, social isolation, or anyone seeking a creative outlet in their lives.

Empowering People Through Art

They offer free workshops and create magical products, including wands, spell books, and other enchanting items that are sold in their gallery shop.

As Ann explains, “We don’t just have people take their creations home to gather dust on a shelf.

“We sell them in our shop.”

This unique approach not only supports the organisation financially but also encourages participants to produce high-quality work, fostering confidence through creativity.

Engaging with Public

They actively engage with the community through public art commissions for events such as Christmas windows and street festivals.

Ann shares, “We participated in ‘Friday on the Square’ in Ashton, a new initiative to attract people.

“We made lanterns for the Lantern Parade happening this Saturday in Ashton too.”

Their involvement in various commissions not only brings in revenue but also includes participants, even if it takes them outside their comfort zones.

Phantasmagoria embraces a mix of activities, including shorter projects with young people, school holiday programs, and one-off workshops for adults.

Their dedication to inclusivity is evident in their appeal to people with neurodiversity, creating a stimulating yet accepting environment.

“We give people the confidence to apply for jobs,” Ann states proudly.

Helping People Into Work

The positive outcomes speak volumes, with participants finding employment, discovering their creative paths, and even landing unexpected jobs, such as one person securing a position in MI5.

Phantasmagoria invites everyone to explore their dedicated arts hub, emphasising that whatever people get involved in is a worthwhile activity.

The immersive space, described by Ann as reminiscent of “walking into a shop from Harry Potter,” is further accentuated by a magic portal leading to their workshop.

When asked about the workshop’s users, Ann explains, “We have people through social prescribing—those facing challenges in life, like unemployment, poor mental health, or chronic illness.”

Improving Lives

The welcoming environment caters to regular participants and anyone interested in creating, contributing to the organisation’s focus on well-being and improving lives.

As the Creative Director, Ann envisions Phantasmagoria as a space where people can realise their potential and achieve amazing things.

Confidence Through Creativity

She notes, “Our strapline is ‘confidence through creativity,'” reflecting the organisation’s commitment to empowering individuals through artistic expression.

Ann encourages individuals to visit Phantasmagoria, emphasising that it’s a place better seen to be understood.

“If you like creative things or interesting places, just come check us out,” she invites.

The organisation’s dynamic mix of activities, inclusive approach, and magical atmosphere make it a standout arts hub in Ashton.

Phantasmagoria operates as a community interest company, not for profit, with Ann Gilligan steering the creative direction.

As the organisation continues to make a positive impact on individuals’ lives, it stands as a testament to the transformative power of art in building confidence, fostering creativity, and creating a sense of community in Ashton and beyond.

You can find them at Clarence Arcade, Stamford St W, Ashton-under-Lyne OL6 7PT

Check out their Facebook Page here