Our Story
Creative Hangouts CIC began as a constituted group in October 2022, driven by a vision to provide inclusive, community-focused arts programmes. Starting in local community spaces, we’ve grown into a thriving organisation, reaching people across Greater Glasgow and Renfrewshire through workshops, school programmes, and mentorship opportunities.
Working from community spaces remains at the core of what we do, ensuring our programmes are accessible, welcoming, and rooted in the communities we serve. Our journey reflects a dedication to fostering creativity and resilience while empowering people of all ages and abilities to explore their artistic potential.
Our Mission
We provide children and young people with a safe, inclusive space to explore their creativity and build confidence through the arts. Our youth-led workshops and programmes empower participants to take ownership of their artistic journeys, fostering resilience, self-expression, and a sense of community.
Our Vision
To build an inclusive arts community where every child and young person has the opportunity to explore their creative potential. We envision a future where our programmes are accessible to all, regardless of financial or social barriers, and where art serves as a tool for empowerment and growth.
Supporting Our Mission
As a Community Interest Company, we rely on sponsorships, grants, and donations to continue offering accessible and inclusive programs.
By partnering with Creative Hangouts, sponsors help us:
Expand our outreach to underserved communities.
Provide scholarships for families in financial need.
Cover essential costs like venue hire, materials, and fair pay for artists and assistants.
If you’re passionate about supporting creativity, education, and the next generation of young artists, get in touch today to explore sponsorship opportunities or visit our Get Involved page to learn more.
Meet the Team
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Kayleigh Sarah McGuinness, Founder & Creative Director
Kayleigh is the driving force behind Creative Hangouts, with over a decade of experience as an artist, facilitator, and creative leader. A graduate of the Glasgow School of Art, she has delivered thousands of workshops across the UK, inspiring people of all ages and abilities to explore their creativity, develop skills, and grow in confidence.
An award-winning artist, Kayleigh’s work has been recognised by Creative Scotland, the Eaton Fund, and Glasgow Connected Arts Network. In 2025, she was honoured with the Jim Michael Award for Exceptional Contribution to the Community and invited by the National Galleries of Scotland to undertake further research following her guest talk at the Scottish Parliament.
Kayleigh sits on the Board of Trustees for WASPS Artist Studios and works closely with Education Scotland and Creative Scotland on curriculum review and arts education initiatives. She has strong partnerships with major cultural institutions including the Gallery of Modern Art, and Glasgow School of Art.
Her leadership is rooted in the belief that the arts have the power to transform lives, building resilience, fostering inclusion, and creating vibrant, connected communities.
Explore Kayleigh’s artistic portfolio at www.kayleighmcguinness.com.
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Chantelle Smith, Admin & Volunteer Coordinator
Chantelle joined Creative Hangouts in February 2023 after initially reaching out as a volunteer. Now the first point of contact for our community, she manages the hello@ email account, ensuring everyone who reaches out feels supported and valued.
Since stepping into her role, Chantelle has worked hard to have Creative Hangouts registered on the Volunteer Charter and is now our official Volunteer Coordinator. She is committed to her own professional growth, currently undertaking the Volunteer Scotland Management Programme, alongside her degree in Occupational Therapy.
Chantelle coordinates our mailing list updates, keeps our community informed and engaged, and oversees our growing network of volunteers with warmth and dedication. In addition to her administrative role, she is a budding artist developing her own painting practice, bringing creative insight and enthusiasm to our team. Her passion for supporting others and fostering an inclusive environment is at the heart of her work, and we are truly lucky to have her as part of Creative Hangouts.
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Florence Logan, Preschool Programme Lead
Florence is a Scottish-French artist, certified yoga teacher, and all-round creative powerhouse who brings boundless energy, warmth, and a deep commitment to making the arts accessible, playful, and empowering.
Graduating from Contemporary Performance Practice (CPP) at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in 2024, Florence was awarded the prestigious Drama in Education Prize and secured a coveted Take Me Somewhere/Tramway graduate residency. She has been selected for multiple artist residencies, including the highly respected Cove Park graduate residency, and has worked extensively with children, young people, and women’s groups, championing women’s voices and fostering joyfully inclusive spaces.
In 2025, Florence was able to deliver a Creative Scotland fully funded day as part of our Summer Camp. She is currently working hard behind the scenes to design early years projects and programmes to roll out across our community. Keep your eyes peeled for exciting updates on what Florence is bringing next!
Florence has collaborated with a range of artists, bringing a fresh new vibe to our workshops by introducing live musicians and movement artists, creating truly dynamic and immersive experiences for our young participants. Her approach is all about movement, imagination, and collaboration, making her the perfect fit for inspiring our youngest creatives.
Find out more about Florence’s playful and dynamic work at www.florence-j-logan.com.
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Kara Rose McLean, Lead Artist Bearsden
With a BA in Communication Design from the Glasgow School of Art and a strong background in facilitation and community arts, Kara is known for her engaging, energetic, and inclusive approach.
Alongside her work with Creative Hangouts, Kara is a Creative Arts Coordinator with the NHS, delivering vibrant, person-centred workshops across mental health and rehabilitation wards in Renfrewshire. Her sessions use visual art as a powerful tool for expression, confidence, and connection, always tailored to the diverse needs of the patients she supports.
In 2023, she led Recovery – What Does It Mean to Me?, a patient-led exhibition funded by Renfrewshire Health & Social Care, showcasing the voices and creativity of those with lived experience. Kara’s warmth, adaptability, and passion for making the arts accessible make her an invaluable member of the Creative Hangouts team.
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Erin Rhode, Lead Artist Barrhead
Erin’s sessions are rooted in creativity, nature, and playful experimentation, with a strong focus on eco-conscious making using upcycled materials. Specialising in mark-making and printmaking, her work explores landscapes, memory, and movement through intuitive, hands-on processes.
Alongside her facilitation work with Creative Hangouts, Erin regularly exhibits her art and sells her prints at markets across Scotland. Her practice blends professional art-making with a deep commitment to community engagement and arts education, inspiring participants to explore their own creative potential while considering the world around them.
Find out more about Erin’s work at www.erinrhode.myportfolio.com.
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Siobhan McLaughin, Lead Artist Bearsden Advanced
Siobhan is a Glasgow-based artist and curator whose work explores landscape, memory, and care through walking, textiles, and non-traditional materials. She has exhibited widely across Scotland, including at the Royal Scottish Academy, Arusha Gallery, and 108 Fine Art, and has curated major exhibitions such as Alan Davie: Beginning of a Far-off World at Dovecot Studios.
Alongside her own artistic practice, Siobhan is a Trustee of the Wilhelmina Barns-Graham Trust and a member of Visual Arts Scotland, reflecting her deep commitment to supporting Scotland’s creative community. She brings an advanced knowledge of the arts to Creative Hangouts, supporting our Advanced Class in developing their conceptual understanding and introducing them to new artists and ideas on a regular basis.
Her ability to weave together professional arts practice with community connection makes her an inspiring addition to the Creative Hangouts team.
Find out more about Siobhan’s work at www.siobhanmclaughlin.co.uk.

Our Extended Team
We are supported by a vibrant community of young volunteers and talented freelance artists who bring fresh perspectives, energy, and expertise to our programmes.
Our volunteers, many of whom are young people themselves, play an integral role in supporting workshops and events, gaining valuable experience and skills along the way. They are at the heart of what we do, helping to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone.
We also collaborate with freelance artists across various disciplines, who contribute their unique expertise to deliver inspiring and innovative workshops. Their creative input and passion ensure that every participant’s experience is both meaningful and impactful.
Olivia Johnstone, Young Person Volunteer :