Magic Carpet has been part of the cultural community of Exeter for almost 40 years. We began from an Exeter University Community Action programme in the early 1980’s, and in 1982 a number of students who ran arts and drama workshops with people with learning disabilities in Exeter saw for themselves the benefits of this for the people they supported and the community. Once they graduated several of them set up Magic Carpet with the support of Exeter CVS. We’re called Magic Carpet because we take people to places they don't ordinarily go to. You can see a little more history of Magic Carpet HERE

Our roots with the University have come full circle as we regularly have student volunteers within our groups. We have also been accepted to be part of the Medical Student training programme; Medical Students come along to our groups and find out more about how creativity and community can benefit people.

Our Honiton group in 2005

We often get asked 'Is Magic Carpet just about creativity',  it is, but its also about friendship, meeting people, developing skills, growing confidence, all the added bonuses from just getting people together with a creative purpose. The threads of Magic Carpet wind themselves across the community, pulling people together and making connections. Everyone involved with Magic Carpet  know someone who has been touched by Magic Carpet, either personally or professionally, either by taking part in a workshop, or a family member who has volunteered or by seeing a exhibition or performance. If we need to be reminded how special Magic Carpet is, one quote stands out  and highlights the importance of what we do: “ I have found a lovely friend through Magic Carpet, I haven't had friends before”.

Our Creative Changes project performing at a learning disability conference, Exminster 2005

What makes Magic Carpet special? The artists, support workers and volunteers who work for us have creativity running through their veins, they work hard to ensure each session has the right environment to be creative, including a safe respectful and understanding space.

Young Carers Puppet Show, Newtown 2003

We don't have the answers to all the worlds problems but we are definitely part of the solutions, please explore our website and find out more about Magic Carpet, a good starting point is HERE