Carers find ‘me time’ through art
Released: 6 August 2007
Carers from across Wolverhampton are using art as a way to relax away from the stresses of their day to day lives.
Each week carers from all over the city take part in Art 4 Health sessions run by Wolverhampton City Council’s Adult Education Service.
One of them is parent carer Tracy Callow who spends most of her week wishing it was Tuesday – the day of her weekly session. It is the only time in a hectic schedule that she gets some real ‘me time’.
She said: “For two hours I am able to think about nothing else apart from this week’s project. I’m never happier than when I have a paint brush in my hand.”
The students, who also include people with mental health issues, have a go at various mediums, from drawing and watercolour to acrylic and collage.
“Most of the members are either carers, or have mild anxiety or depression so our classes also act as a therapy session, we chat, have a cuppa and generally support one another,” said Tracy, who cares for her son Lewis, who has chronic renal failure.
“For the two hours I’m there I don’t think about hospital or appointments or worrying about my son, I put my head down and get on with the task in hand.
“Art 4 Health means the world to me - it has given me a new outlook on life and a deep love and appreciation for a subject I always thought was beyond my capabilities.
“What I love the most is the fact that you don’t have to be the world’s greatest sketcher or painter to produce some wonderful art work – the whole point is to have a go and enjoy it.”
Sessions are held at three locations – Bilston Art Gallery, Pendeford Community Learning Centre and Old Hall Street – and attract up to 30 people a week.
Tutor and coordinator Bev Dedicoat said: “The sessions are designed to get people to concentrate on just one thing – namely art – and it works equally well for carers as it does for people with mental health issues.
“Some of our users have found they have got real artistic talents and go on to do further education in art. Others have also continued in mainstream learning in other areas, and for some it is just a chance to relieve some of the anxiety and stress they may be experiencing.”
Group members also take part in workshops – this year they have tackled silver jewellery, batik and ceramics to keep the creative juices flowing – and have also staged exhibitions.
• For more details of the Art 4 Health sessions, call the Adult Education Service on 01902 558164.
Issued by the press office.