A Tavistock festival celebrating diversity and inclusion is displaying tree-themed artwork to illustrate community links.

A summer ‘Tree of Life’ project culminated in a drop-in workshop for all ages at Tavistock Library.

Nev Connor, from an educational and mentoring service, led the workshops. He works for UBUNTU which is guided by the African philosophy unbuntu, based on the belief in a universal bond of sharing connecting all humanity.

Nev said: “The tree of life acts as a metaphor for community roots, the trunk that supports us, our achievements, hopes and dreams. Altogether, over 30 trees have been created with students from Tavistock College, local refugees, families and individuals.

“It was a great experience, and I enjoyed meeting the different people who come into Tavistock Library. I always appreciate the hospitality of the staff, volunteers and everyone who supports the library. It's a reminder of the range of people and stories that connect with the library.”

This was the final workshop of a summer of creativity, with artists from diverse backgrounds working with local schools, Tavi Youth Cafe, families and community groups. The workshops explored identity and belonging through art and the resulting work is being exhibited at the Tavistock Respect Festival a free celebration of diversity and inclusion.

A festival spokesman said the event ‘promotes respect for all, celebrates difference and says ‘no’ to all forms of prejudice. We are stronger together.’

The outcome of various workshop displays will be in Tavistock Library from Saturday, September 12, and in the Butchers’ Hall in the outer pannier market on the main festival day, Sunday, September 20.

A full festival programme of events is now available from Tavistock Library, local shops and venues and on Respect Fest's Facebook and Instagram pages. There will be creative workshops, art, music, dancing and food. Level access is provided, along with sign language signers on the main day.