The Opening of the Art Studio at Appleby House!

02/18/2019

Our CM Artist Kim is now officially an ‘Artist-in-Residence’ at Appleby House Care Home in Epsom, Surrey. The opening of the Art Studio at the home means that residents can drop in and explore their creativity at any time. Kim offers a variety of different artistic materials including acrylics, watercolours, pastels, drawing and inks for residents to enjoy, in a fun and relaxed environment. They even now have a potter’s wheel, where they have been creating some beautiful ceramics.

The studio has been a huge hit with both staff and residents, and was officially opened back in December by the Mayor and Mayoress of Epsom & Ewell.

The work they produce in the studio goes on display in their in-house Gallery the “Appleby Tate” for all to enjoy. Kim has also secured the residents an exhibition at Bourne Hall in Epsom, which will be open to the public later this year. Residents are all working on their own unique pieces of art for this exciting show, which they are all looking forward to.

Kim’s art sessions have had a remarkable impact on one particular resident, Judy. She lives with advanced dementia and for years has struggled with communication. As soon as she steps into the Art Studio, she becomes focused, and confidently talks about the colours and textures in her work. Judy is so happy to see Kim each week and looks forward to her art sessions. Before moving to Appleby House, she had never given art or craft a go!

The staff couldn’t believe the effect it has had on her. The work she has created is so vibrant and expressive. Look at her latest piece!…

CM Artist Kim says; “Art brings her clarity…it’s like she goes into a different place when she’s painting.” Kim couldn’t be more proud to see what Judy has achieved, as well as so many other residents at Appleby House!

Residents, staff, families and friends are all thrilled with the impact that the Art Studio is having on the home. Each week visitors enjoy seeing the latest work that the residents have created.

Kim says; “Each time I am here I am filled with joy and ideas of what we can do. The potential is so vast. I love them all!”

Photo credit: Care UK

Our First Painting and Prosecco Party!

02/18/2019

Our CM Artist Liz, based in Devon, recently held her first Painting and Prosecco party. One of the parents from her regular “Kids Create” groups expressed an interest in giving art a go, so they decided to hold a party at her house. A number of friends came along for a fun, relaxing evening of creativity. The night was such a success, that they all want to make it a regular evening!

None of the guests had really created any artwork since their school years, and were keen on trying something new. The party host had a lovely big dining table, where Liz laid out a selection of artistic materials including watercolours, pastels, acrylics and a selection of different textured paper. Then everyone enjoyed a glass of Prosecco whilst Liz ran some demonstrations showing different techniques to try. The task was to experiment with each medium and work towards creating a patchwork landscape picture.

Everyone got stuck in straight away, whilst Liz encouraged them to enjoy the process of exploring the mediums rather than focussing too much on the end result. Liz was on hand to offer advice, and help them to discover different ways to use each of the different mediums. Every enjoyed the fact that the session was so easy-going and informal, and it didn’t matter whether or not they had artist experience or not. It was a much more of a laid-back approach to getting creative rather, than your traditional art class, which can be intimidating for those without much experience.

All of the party attendees thoroughly enjoyed their evening, and found it a lovely way to get together with friends and unwind after a busy week. Everyone who went said they would love to all get together to do it again soon! Many were thrilled with their work, and all loved exploring the different materials on offer whilst enjoying the creative process. The evening was a huge success!

Liz can’t wait to run more of these parties this year, and is looking into running a regular Painting and Prosecco night at a local venue.

Resident Amazes With Stunning Paintings!

02/18/2019

After a 16-year break from art, Derrick Waller, resident at Saxonwood Care Home in Battle has re-ignited his creative flair since participating in the art sessions. The staff are delighted to see such beautiful artwork produced by a resident.

Derrick had a long career as an artist and illustrator and regularly exhibited work. Sadly, following the loss of his wife, he lost his creative passion and no longer felt inspired to continue his artistic practice. His daughter tried to encourage him to attend local art classes, but he was not interested. Then at the beginning of last year, he moved to Saxonwood Care Home where Creative Minds artist Sarah Bryant persuaded him to join her art session. For the first time in 16 years he picked up a paintbrush again, and has once again become immersed in his creative practice. With a sparkle in his eyes, Derrick proudly shares the artwork he produces with residents at Saxonwood. All thoroughly enjoy viewing his diverse collection of work, which includes paintings, sketches and ceramics.

His daughter Susan has said; “My sister and I are thrilled to see him producing such beautiful artwork again.”

Creative Minds artist Sarah says; “It is a pleasure and privilege to work with Derrick and to see him creating stunning artwork again. To see the impact our sessions bring to clients, such as Derrick is so empowering. Knowing that you can make a difference gives me incredible job satisfaction,”