“I last picked up paintbrush around 25 years ago, but I can still recall how much I enjoyed my art lessons at school. For me it has been a wonderful break from the intensity of a full working day (and a busy home life!). James has been a wonderful teacher, and be able to paint alongside colleagues that I often only get to see in meetings and in passing in corridors has been a great way to reconnect with the work family I have built here since starting 4 years ago. 

Time absolutely flies whilst I am painting. It is one of the few times when my mind doesn't seem to be full of everything else! For me it is similar to reading a book, but the physical action it takes to mix and paint I think actually helps me switch off even more so than reading. And it's paint, so if it goes wrong, next week I will paint over it and call it "texture"!

I think our classes have also shown that it doesn't matter what your experience is, or how long since you tried it, taking part in the arts is good for the mind and soul. I would recommend it to anyone. Just wear an apron!”

– Mel, participant of Art & Wellbeing Project

“As a complete novice, I was apprehensive as I didn't want to embarrass myself. However, the Art Therapy (as I like to call it!) sessions have been an absolute delight. I may not be the next Picasso but the enjoyment, satisfaction and knowledge I have gained is immeasurable. Every session is relaxed, calm and really well led and explained. Through James' expert tuition I have created a piece of Art that I am proud of, have gained so much knowledge and have something to look forward to at the end of a busy, and stressful working week. 

I think everyone should engage in art and creativity in some form to enhance their wellbeing as it genuinely has worked wonders for me. I come out of every session relaxed and smiling. I never thought that I would create anything artistic that I would happily show off to others, but I have and I have had a joyous time creating it. “

– Sabra, participant of Art & Wellbeing Project