Wellbeing and Relaxation on the agenda as Final Fridays returns to the Herbert

23 September 2024

The Herbert Art Gallery & Museum in Coventry is hosting its next Final Fridays event on Friday, 27 September 2024, from 6pm to 9pm.

The goal of Final Fridays is to celebrate and promote the vibrant cultural scene in Coventry, encouraging people to explore the city and participate in its diverse offerings, while offering the opportunity to take in the museum outside of usual opening hours.

The evenings are themed, often linking in with an event or exhibition which is happening at the museum. This edition, titled Final Fridays X Wellness, will be an evening centred around wellbeing and relaxation, offering a unique mix of art, activities, and social interaction.

Attendees can experience EmbodyXR, a pioneering dance-based art game developed by Mercurial Dance, designed to reduce anxiety using CBT and movement therapy methods, especially among young people. There will also be a variety of grounding craft activities, a mindful drinks bar, and opportunities for a bit of retail therapy with the "Swap Shop" (bring up to 5 items of clothing or accessories to take part), The VEND, and the museum's ever popular gift shop.

Guests will also get the chance to enjoy a lo-fi hip hop playlist from a local DJ, Saadaan, who will be mixing and incredible and eclectic vinyl collection on the night.

The Herbert has also partnered with The Yard, one of Coventry’s LGBTQIA+ bars who will be shaking up a cocktail and mocktail on the night to raise funds for Mind ahead of World Mental Health Day on 10 October; Mind will also be there on the night with information of their services and lending an ear to anyone who wants to chat about mental health.

This event is free to attend and offers an alternative way to unwind and explore the intersection of wellness and art. It's perfect for anyone looking for a creative way to end the week. It is also idea for students new to the city looking for fun and unique experiences.

Harriet Lovelock Bruce, the Events Coordinator at the Herbert, shared her excitement about the upcoming event: “Final Fridays are always a blast, but this one’s got a real feel-good vibe. Who wouldn’t want to sip a mindful drink, get stuck into some crafts, and try out this amazing dance game? It’s going to be a fab mix of fun and relaxation, and I can’t wait to see everyone there!”