I have taught within the Artlift scheme since its inception in 2012, providing a safe creative space for adults with mental health issues.
It is funded by NHS Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group, Local Authorities, Trusts and Foundations.
Artlift is an art on prescription scheme that aims to improve the health and wellbeing of participants. Participants are recruited through GP and health professional referral, with art sessions taking place within an either clinical or social wellbeing environment.
I have taught drawing and illustration to Artlift participants since its inception in 2012. My emphasis is to provide an inclusive creative environment in which the doing is far more important than the outcome. A structured lesson plan, tailored to the needs and abilities of each group, not only ensures that we maximise the time available, but encourages the participants to work collectively and socially. Peer support, when it happens, is key to being able to move on from Artlift to self-led or external art groups. It’s about giving people the tools to be able to do it for themselves.
I strive to create a relaxed, positive, up-beat learning environment based on achievable goals and low-tech materials.
The images below are from an Artlift Workshop
“…I don’t remember anybody saying I can’t do this, they might have said they find it difficult, but often with art, people feel flummoxed or intimidated. But this was so beautifully prepared in steps and engaged people it was wonderful to see how carefully it was delivered”
Workshops (Miscellaneous)
