LifewithArt is overjoyed to be able to add another building to our growing list of art centres in the Southwest. Shilhay Art Group, The Risings, Krafty Kafe and Wellbeing Exeter have all been able to take part and enjoy our art workshops, in Harlequins Shopping Centre, throughout October & November. Visitors to the shopping centre also had the opportunity to pop in and see the amazing photographic exhibitions on display – a welcome break from Christmas shopping!

Clients supported by Wellbeing Exeter, an organisation that aims to explore better ways of supporting the 40% of patients who visit their GP with a socially based rather than medical problem, have been enjoying workshops involving a mix of story telling and ceramic painting. Each workshop started with a traditional story from a different culture featuring bowls, dishes or cups. The stories involve objects, gifts and transformation through kindness. Taking these stories as inspiration, the group then had the opportunity to decorate ceramics; playing with different patterns, colours and techniques.

“Very welcoming! I was going to paint a tea set at home but didn’t have the confidence. Now I do! Thank you.”

Wellbeing Exeter

“I really enjoyed this group! The art and storytelling was the cherry on the cake. Thank you!”

Wellbeing Exter

Ladies from the Shilhay Art Group enjoyed a workshop reworking evening dresses. Their dresses tell tales of glamorous and romantic encounters and rags to riches stories.

“It really has been great fun! The ladies have been delightful company. They have really enjoyed reworking evening dresses with wonderful appliqued and painted patterns and jewel motifs.”    

Helen Snell, LifewithArt Tutor