Over the past few months I have been delivering art sessions at Bradgate Court in Sinfin, Derby. The group have had lots of fun experimenting with new techniques and materials. Most recently we have covered; painting birds, book illustration, printing, abstract painting, marble painting, bas relief and still life. It has been wonderful to see everyone grow in confidence with their creative skills, get to know each other better and make friendships. One couple was inspired to take their sketchbooks on holidays, returning with it full of drawings to share with the group.
A participant who had never tried painting before has been so productive painting on canvas, his artwork now decorates the communal room walls. The room at times now feels like a busy artist studio buzzing with creativity. Those who already have craft skills like card making, knitting and woodwork find the sessions have been giving them fresh ideas for new projects too.
It certainly has become an established art group which is a joy to see & wonderful to know they will continue to have enjoyment from art. With a grant kindly donated by Metropolitan they have invested in plenty of supplies to keep them going and residents are donating things too.
Friday was the last session with me, the group will now be working independently as the aims of the project intended. It was time to say farewell, as always, leaving the group was tinged with sadness as I have loved working here with such wonderful warmhearted people. However it was also a celebration of their creative journey. There was excitement gathering their favourite artwork together framing it ready for their first art exhibition, it’s amazing what they’ve done. The exhibition will be open from 1st October at Artcore’s Charnwood Street Studio as part of ‘Older People’s Week’ celebrations. I will treasure the ‘thank you pig’ & painting they presented me, both sit proudly on the desk in my studio. I wish the group lots more joy on their creative journey and I look forward to dropping in to see them in the future.
