Open Arts
helping to manage mental health and wellbeing through creativity
Open Arts
Open Arts was an award winning, evidence based, community arts and health programme, which helped manage and maintain mental health and wellbeing through creativity.
A message from Jo Keay; 'I have recently returned from long term sick leave hence the delay in replying to any messages and enquiries.
Sadly, due to financial reasons, Open Arts are no longer based at Garon Park or able to run any courses.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone that has been part of Open Arts since 2008. To all the participants, volunteers, artists, studio managers, HOFS and Garon Park CIC who supported Open Arts and helped to make a difference to many lives.
I hope to deliver art groups in Trust sites in the future and I wish you all you wish yourselves. Always.
All good things
Jo
What We Did
Our courses were facilitated by a professional lead artist with support from volunteer art assistants,
and held in community locations rather than clinical settings to promote social inclusion.
Depending on the area, a representative from the local college information, guidance and advice service attended in the final weeks of the course, to signpost on to further educational and vocational opportunities, facilitating a smooth transition to maintain social inclusion.
At the end of the 12 week course, a six month studio placement was offered for independent art making within the same supportive studio environment. The studio time was used to continue to
develop and improve what participants had learnt on their 12 week course through development of their arts practice with the support of studio managers and their peers around them.
Participants were also encouraged to visit a gallery with the group and take part in a workshop within the gallery space. If they took up the studio placement they had the opportunity to work towards exhibiting in local art trails and open day events.
Open Arts is managed under EPUT Charity Fund.
Registered Charity number 1053793
07580 982462
How We Help
Our courses include taster sessions in visual arts, such as drawing, painting, printmaking, photography, sculpture, creative writing and crafts. We also offer drama, digital arts and photography courses that help develop new skills and confidence. But most importantly, we offer a positive and productive environment that has been part of many people's recovery.
Who is it for?
All our participants are aged 16 or older, who have either experienced mental health problems or are a carer.
Our 'Open Space' art groups are open to anyone that wants to be creative for their own wellbeing.
Volunteering with Open Arts
We are always delighted to have new people join us as volunteers. Our volunteers are highly valued as key members of the team. Please contact us to talk about what you could do, and find out how to apply.
