It was all hands on deck, this summer, when LifewithArt opened two new charity arts centres in Surrey. Dukes Court, Woking and Forum House, Staines opened in July displaying some of LifewithArt’s amazing photographic exhibitions featuring images by Teenage Cancer Trust, Riding for the Disabled Association and Myaware. Gallery managers Hugh and James were on hand to  open the exhibitions to the public giving local residents the chance to pop in and see the exhibitions.

New to the Woking and Staines area, we reached out to the local community, making contacts and providing information on the service LifewithArt offers. LifewithArt administrator Ria Hickman and art co-ordinator Sarah Hartland worked together contacting care homes, residential centres, charities and other organisations in the local area. Happily our offer of free arts workshops was snapped up by Surrey Choices, an organisation that support adults who need learning or disability support, who brought customers from 3 separate day centres to Forum House and Dukes Court. In addition, clients from Dramatize, a theatre company for individuals with learning disabilities, attended a series of workshops in Staines. Workshop demand was so high that it was necessary to recruit 3 new tutors to join our existing LifewithArt team, drawn in from London and Surrey. With a team of 9 specialist tutors, we were able to offer the groups workshops in a variety of mediums including visual arts, drama and music.

“We have really enjoyed the art sessions we have had. The lion collages on the first week were a favourite. 2 of the customers were excited to take them home and 2 wanted them to be displayed at the centre for everyone to see. It has been good to have something different every week. The workshops have been nice and relaxed and everyone has been able to achieve something. We are looking forward to finding out what next week’s activity will be.” Cranstock, Surrey Choices

“Its’ been good fun! I liked playing the drums and doing drama games. I’d like to do it again.” Woking Resource Centre, Surrey Choices

All in all, a wonderfully fun and creative first occupation in both Forum House and Dukes Court. My thanks to everyone who made it such a success. We are really looking forward to moving back into the buildings in November where we can start getting creative again.

Woking 3
Woking 1
Staines 2
Woking 2
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Staines 1

A musical Medley by Surrey Choices – Cranstock: