Creativity Works





Creativity Works Newsletter October 2019
We hope there is something that appeals to you in this month's issue. Please do share this newsletter with a friend or colleague who might be interested. Thank you!
 

It's nice to get out of the office sometimes, and last Friday myself and my colleague Stacey did just that, manning our stall at Green Park Station as part of Getting to Know Bath day. The event, co-ordinated by Curo, found like-minded organisations who do exceptional work in the third sector, coming together to promote our services to the wider public, and indeed to each other. We were in esteemed company alongside organisations such as Bath Mind, St Mungos, Clean Slate, Goldies, the Adult Learning Service and many more. We already work in partnership with many of these organisations, predominantly through Creative Links, our mental health and wellbeing programme, and it was great to talk to people who were interested in joining one of our peer-support groups or taking part in one of our many creative courses and programmes that we run in the community.

The highlight of the day for me was chatting to a man who had been living with mental health challenges for some time. After speaking for a while about the writing work we do, he produced from his back pocket, five crumpled sheets of poetry and asked me to read it. Words such as 'profound', 'moving', 'raw' and 'illuminating' certainly do not go amiss whilst I was reading his verse. There are times when I sit in the office and can feel removed from the work that we do as an organisation, and there are these times, when meeting people such as this man and sharing time together and especially sharing creativity, make it all worthwhile.

Many of the partners mentioned will be participating in World Mental Health Day this Thursday. The theme this year is suicide prevention. This theme is something very dear to our hearts at Creativity Works, and we hope that you find time to join in some of the many events and interventions that are happening all over this area and further afield.

If you are in Bath, why not join 'Shine A Light', the lantern parade that starts at 6.45pm in front of the Royal Crescent, Victoria Park. Arriving at Bath Abbey at 7.15pm, our very own Philippa will be there with a wishing tree, so please do go down and make a special wish on this important day. There will also be many other things going on such as films, a choir and great food. I'm sure it will be a very special occasion.


Olly
Director, Creativity Works

World Mental Health Day - Thursday 10th October

Creative Links Wellbeing Groups & Courses
Radstock Wellbeing & Loving Life Group

The Radstock Wellbeing and Loving Life Group have recently come under the care of Creativity Works and Bath Mind and we are delighted to be supporting them with an upcoming series of creative sessions facilitated by artist Alicia Ridley, who you can read more about in this month's Artist Profile. 

The group offers a safe and welcoming space to come and be inspired to  explore your own  creativity.   The sessions, which start on the 7th November, will  have a theme to help navigate your artistic exploration with a sense of fun and  discovery . No previous art experience is necessary.
 
When: Thursdays  12 noon - 2pm   Dates: 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th November, 5th and 12th December
Where: Radstock Trinity Methodist Church
Cost: £2.50 per session

To book your place, please contact Philippa 01761 438852 philippa@creativityworks.org.uk 
My Time My Space [places still available]
An ante-natal project for women experiencing low mood, anxiety or depression in pregnancy

My Time, My Space is a group for pregnant women to have time and space for themselves, gaining skills and coping strategies which may help to promote wellbeing, reduce anxiety and isolation and provide practical and emotional support during pregnancy and beyond. All sessions take place in a relaxed environment, with refreshments provided. 

Pregnancy can be a time of heightened emotions. For many women the dominant emotions are positive ones, but a number of pregnant women experience feelings of low mood including unhappiness, loneliness and anxiety. For some these feelings may be severe enough to be clinically diagnosed as antenatal depression or anxiety, for others it can be just a feeling that something isn't right.

Art-based sessions will be led by an experienced, socially-engaged artist from Creativity Works. Relaxation for Labour will be led by a qualified and experienced practitioner, Georgie Bassford Theraplay recognises that the relationship between mother and baby starts to develop long before birth, and aims to support the growth of this relationship.

This session will be delivered by a trained Theraplay® Practitioner. The course is classed as 'ante-natal care', if attending has been recommended by a doctor or midwife.

When: Tuesday 8th October - 3rd December 2019 (no session during half term) 
Where: St Martins' Garden Children's Centre, 150 Frome Road, Bath BA2 5RE
Time: 4.30 - 6.30 pm

For full details and how to self-refer please download the flyer here: My Time My Space 
Creative Peer Groups
Writing Space
Supporting wellbeing through creative writing
Would you like to develop Creative Writing Skills and connect with other writers and the world around you?

Writing Space, one of our peer-led groups, are currently exploring the theme of 'Looking Back' through exploring memories, events in our lives and how fiction styles use this to fire-up the imagination. They are working towards an anthology and attending some spoken word events and invite you to join their weekly sessions:

"Come and join us to learn simple practices to rebuild confidence in writing, draw on life experiences and kindle creativity through words. The focus is on enjoyment, sharing and connecting with others through creative writing"

The group meet on Tuesday afternoons 1 pm - 4pm, central Bath

About Writing Space

Writing Space is a peer-led project for people of all writing skills who would like a safe place to develop and present their writing. The group is suitable for adults who would like to support their wellbeing and mental health through creativity. Please note that there is no specific mental health support, but safe, respectful space is a priority. 

Occasionally  sessions are outdoors, so please be prepared for easy walking and various weathers!  To join in c ontact Philippa Forsey either on 01761 438852 or email  philippa@creativityworks.org.uk
Get Creative
Exploring creativity and visual arts
Are you looking to experiment with different arts materials and techniques? Get Creative peer-led visual art group in Bath, could be just right for you. The small groups' aim is to support personal wellbeing through creativity. We'll let the group introduce themselves...

"We are a social group of people who like to explore art through new materials and mediums, learning new things and sharing new approaches. We meet weekly to create alongside others and bounce ideas about. It's a nice atmosphere, a safe, friendly, relaxing space to experiment and try out new techniques. It's  creative time for myself'" 

Tuesday afternoons 1.15pm - 3.15pm Odd Down

The weekly group offers an opportunity to meet others, learn and share creative ideas and gain confidence in a safe and friendly environment.   All members help plan further sessions and creative activity.

If you would like to join  please contact Philippa 01761 438852  philippa@creativityworks.org.uk.



One recent Get Creative session explored creating textures using different materials and techniques.
Foxhill Happy Snappers Photography Group 
Would you like to explore your local community through a lens?
An opportunity to experiment with photography, share stories about the social history of Foxhill / Combe Down whilst  learning new skills and creative ways to express yourself.  Take part in short walks and discussions. 

When: Thursdays 11am-1pm 
Where: Foxhill Community Centre.
Bring a camera / smartphone / tablet if you can. N o previous experience is necessary. 

Contact Max for details and to register interest: outreach2@Bathmind.org.uk 01225 316199 
or please contact Philippa 01761 438852 philippa@creativityworks.org.uk.

Keynsham Sky by a member of Snap & Stroll
Keynsham Snap & Stroll Peer Support Group 
Explore Keynsham through a lens
A friendly, informal and sociable group that enjoys taking photos and promoting wellbeing.  If you've got a camera, phone or tablet and you want to walk, talk and take pictures then this group is brilliant!

When: Wednesday mornings, Keynsham. 
Facebook PageKeynsham Snap & Stroll

Contact Max for details and to register interest:  outreach2@Bathmind.org.uk 01225 316199 
or please contact Philippa 01761 438852  philippa@creativityworks.org.uk.
Artist Profile: Alicia Ridley


Tell us a bit about yourself and your artistic medium:

Like most people, I loved to create when I was little. From odd art installations in my room, my own Monopoly version, to paired dance routines to Barbara Streisand with my little sister and I adored art at school but somewhere around the age of 14 I was told by an Art Teacher that I couldn't draw. So I literally dropped Art there and then. It was friends in Zimbabwe who helped me to overrule that lie and fortunately, ceramic lessons began a love of clay and a way back into art. Now, I make using all different forms of clay, plus, I paint and use mixed media.

What project/s are you currently working on with Creativity Works?

I recently met the Wellbeing and Loving Life group in Radstock to talk about some workshops I drew up for them and I was delighted to hear that they want me to work with them. I am excited about starting next month.

Who inspires you and why?

I get inspired often...listening to anybody who has experienced great hardship and yet still sees the light in everything inspires me on a personal level. And those who see where they can help in some way and then just get on and do it. A psychologist with an insight into long lasting effects of trauma on a child's brain has started a project where they meet the refugees boats and help children immediately re-frame their traumatic experience. That I find truly awesome.. 

In terms of art...the natural world is a constant delight. Just last night we drove home from school captivated by the silvery light on the birds against the dark rain cloud that dominated and clashed against the sun. I want to paint that sky and the birds. But sometimes it's just looking very closely at an object and seeing it in detail. I did that with an acorn cup last week and had a go at making one in porcelain.

What book or exhibition has inspired you recently?

Well, it's probably blowing our own trumpet, but I was incredibly blessed to be part of the recent 'Holding Space' exhibition at Walcot Chapel. We are a collective of artists, who having studied the art therapy foundation course at Bath College together, decided to be a bit vulnerable and put some of our work in an exhibition. It finished last Saturday and I miss being around the art and with the other artists - the atmosphere was extraordinary. The feedback was powerfully moving and is inspiring us to think big about what next. Holding Space as we call ourselves inspires me at so many levels. I am very thankful for it.

What's been your biggest professional, personal or creative achievement to date?

Although I am wanting to move away from using the labels, I think managing to recover from ME/CFS/Fibromyalgia through my journey with God and the rediscovery of the delights of art and the healing that was in it, is something that has had a profound effect on my life and others. But being a mum of two lovely, kind and decent humans is a matter of deep worth for me.

What are your creative aspirations? (with or without Creativity Works)?

I have lots!! Several plans afoot around 'Holding Space', and the Radstock Art Group. My ambition long term is to have an 'art barn' for kids and adults to come and get creative in a way they need to but schools can't supply anymore. On a personal level I want to keep exploring porcelain and some bigger pieces, I am desperate to do a sculpture course and I would love to do some Raku. 

What advice would you give an emerging socially engaged artist?

I don't feel massively qualified to offer advice....but what has inspired me in terms of being in touch with my heart and my own personal creativity is the stunning Father Heart Course in Combe Down, doing the Art Therapy Foundation course, and being part of a group of other artists who inspire and encourage and give me space to just be me.

Where do you hang out on social media?

I am new to Instagram but I am there as @cialazuli. We also have a @Holdingspaceuk insta account. I will be setting up an online shop (eeeek....still wobbly about that) but it will be a case of one step at a time..or bechana bechana as my husband says!
Other News 


Craft & Create: A fun packed day of arts and crafts for all the family
Made in Foxhill is our arts project working alongside the community in Foxhill to provide high quality creative activities for the area. We work with a dedicated steering group of co-producers, ensuring the residents of Foxhill are at the centre of the creative work that takes place. Our aim is to provide an inspiring mix of free activities for all ages.

Following a standout event at the end of last year, we are holding another event at The Hub, Mulberry Park. This collaboration will celebrate the 1st year birthday of The Hub itself, as well as an artisan market full of Foxhill and Combe Down makers and artists, and our very own arts event.

Come and join us for two performances by highly-rated theatre company Dragonbird with their new show for all the family, The Elephant's Child. Take part in animation, cartooning, craft and bread-making, and see a stunning new exhibition from resident photography group, Foxhill Happy Snappers. We will also be joined by Mat Finch from My Pub Choir, who will be leading an hour of singing for all ages and abilities.

When: Saturday 9th November, 10am - 3pm.
Where: The Hub, Mulberry Park, Mulberry Way, Combe Down, Bath BA2 5BU

Dragonbird Theatre will be at the Hub!

How did the elephant get his trunk? Well, come in our hot air balloon to the great, grey-green, greasy Limpopo all set about with fever trees and find out!  Dragonbrird will be holding TWO performances of this fun and interactive show during the Hub's Birthday Party on the 9th November. Book your free place today!

MORNING

The Elephants Child - 10.30 - 11.30 BOOK 

AFTERNOON

The Elephants Child - 1.30 - 2.30 BOOK
Holding Space Exhibition Success 



Holding Space Exhibition - pics by Stacey Pottinger
Stacey and Philippa from Creativity Works were both lucky enough to visit the Holding Space exhibition which ran from 25th - 28th September at the Walcot Chapel in Bath.

The exhibition was created and curated by a collective of 10 artists, all recent Arts Therapy Foundation graduates. The exhibition was an eclectic collection of fascinating and diverse pieces, each one exploring the connection between art, wellbeing, mental health and therapy from the unique perspective of each artist.

One of the artists said "Creativity has always been an important part of my life. Through creating I've been able to connect with others," and another artists said that "We've all loved helping raise awareness of the benefits of art in health and wellbeing." The exhibition not only raised awareness but the group donated nearly £50 to Creativity Works to help fund further projects through our Creative Links support service. 

We would like to thank them for their kind donation and support for the charity and the work we do in this field.

The artists involved were: Ali Blacklee Whittall, Alicia Ridley, Briony Dace, Jess Pickett, Jo Cassidy, Michelle Owen, Pollyanna Buckley, Vanessa Emery and Victoria Smith.
Could you be our next Chair of the Board?
We are seeking a new Chair of the Board of Trustees, Creativity Works - could this be you?

Purpose of Role
  • To lead and direct the Board and the organisation through an exciting period of development and artistic vision
  • To ensure the Trustees fulfil their duties and responsibilities for the proper governance of Creativity Works  
  • To support the Director of Creativity Works and to ensure the Board works to support all staff and volunteers
Working with: The Director and Staff of Creativity Works, Members of the Board  
Contract type: Non-executive, voluntary. For a period of 2 yrs.
Commitment: Monthly meeting with Director, 6 x board meetings per annum, 1 x away day per annum, additional meetings and contact where necessary.

For the full job description please click here : FULL JOB DESCRIPTION

If you'd like to chat to Oliver Jones, our Director or to Louise Lappin-Cook, current Chair, about the role please email chair@creativityworks.org.uk or call us on 01761 438852
Other Opportunities
Cardboard Citizens Residency - Bristol Old Vic
Final call out for Participants, artists and makers with experience or at risk of homelessness - Cardboard Citizens Residency in Bristol
 
Dates 14 - 25 October, 10-5pm, Bristol Old Vic
Are you a Bristol based artist, theatre maker or practitioner with experience or at risk of homelessness?
 
Forum Theatre specialists Cardboard Citizens are working in partnership with Bristol Old Vic to create a unique piece of Forum Theatre exploring the Bristol residents' experiences of homelessness, the challenges and issues that they face.
 
Over 10 days, we will be working with a group of residents to create an original piece of Forum which will be performed at Bristol Old Vic on 25 October.
 
We're looking for artists and makers who are:
-        Bristol based
-        Interested in using theatre and performance to explore issues and develop new outcomes
-        Comfortable sharing their personal experiences and contributing to a devising process
-        Have some experience of homelessness (we recognise the full range of forms of homelessness, including housing instability, residence in hostels, sofa surfing, and rough sleeping)
 
Dates:
Mon - Fri, 14 -25 October, 10-5pm at Bristol Old Vic
Final event on 25 October, 6-8pm at Bristol Old Vic
You need to be available all 10 days.
Food and travel expenses will be provided.
 
There will also be some initial workshops on 9 & 10 October, exact times TBC
 
If you'd like to register your interest, please contact Celia@cardboardcitizens.org.uk
 
If you'd like to attend the event, click here for more information:  bristololdvic.org.uk/whats-on/cardboard-citizens
D!G Artist-in-Residence Open Call for Applications
D!G is a public realm project to develop a durational social artwork that engages new audiences, supports local talent development, and contributes to research at the University of Gloucestershire. This will take place through an artist residency, a Creative Enterprise Programme, and the re-modelling of Hardwick Gallery. Proposals are invited for an artist-in-residence to devise and deliver an ambitious project that engages with the people and places of St Peter's and St Paul's over the period of one year.

Location: Neighbourhoods of St Peter's and St Paul's, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
Commissioner: We Create Arts Action Group/University of Gloucestershire/Take A Part CIC
Artist Fee: £10,000
Production budget: £10,000
Duration: October 2019 - September 2020
Proposal deadline: 5pm, Friday 11 October 2019

Full details: D!G Artist-in-Residence 

Artist's wanted for Window Wanderland, Shepton Mallet
Make the Sunshine and the Art Bank are running a series of inter-generational workshops in a residential nursing home in Shepton Mallet with school children ranging from Infant, primary and secondary school age to create window displays for Shepton Mallet's first Window Wanderland event next March www.windowwanderland.com

They are looking for artists who have experience facilitating inter-generational workshops.

Please contact
 lucy@therubbishartproject.co.uk for more information.
Making Every Contact Count (MECC) Training
There are still some spaces on the following Make Every Contact Count Training courses:
  • November 13th and 20th
  • December 4th and 11th
  • January 16th and 23rd
  MECC is about supporting people to make the most of every opportunity they have with the millions of people they come into contact with every day. Everyone who interacts with the public is able to make a difference to the health and wellbeing of the population by encouraging and supporting individuals to change behaviours that may be damaging to their health. Telling people what to do is not the most effective way to help them change. 

MECC is a skills-based training opportunity that encourages a different way of working and interacting to address their health and wellbeing.


Free Connect 5 Training  Everyday skills for talking with adults in distress
The Connect 5 training programme is an accessible, evidenced based course that is relevant to everyone who works or meets with the public. It provides participants with skills and competencies that build confidence in having conversations about mental health and wellbeing. It presents tools to empower others to take proactive steps to build resilience and look after themselves. Connect 5 takes the position that we don't need to be mental health specialists to support those who are experiencing emotional and mental health problems.  Booking now for November to March dates:  Click here for full course info, dates & booking
Music Listening for Wellbeing with Soundwell 
Many people listen to music to support their mood and wellbeing. In this course you will have the opportunity to share music that is meaningful to you in an accepting space.
  • People who enjoy music but may not wish to play music themselves,
  • Those wanting to share and discover new music,
  • People who would like a stepping stone towards developing the confidence to join talking groups or to making music together with others.
  • We especially welcome anyone who may be feeling lonely, low in mood, or anxious.
Full details of the course can be found here:  Wellbeing College


Community funding & finance session
This event is run by the Social Enterprise & Innovation Programme for any community enterprise or charity in the region.
 
Join us to discuss funding and finance for community driven projects in the West of England.
  • Hear the latest funding & social investment updates in a discussion with community anchor organisations 3SG (Bath), CVS South Glos, Voscur (Bristol) and Dartington School for Social Entrepreneurs
  • Book surgery sessions with experts, funders and social investors such as Resonance Ltd// Locality// Bristol and Bath Regional Capital and Voscur to get direct advice.
  • Learn from peers about their experience of seeking funding and have your say in a range of workshops.
21st October 10am start 12.30 - 1.30 networking lunch. Register free here

Followed by the main New Western Frontier event at 1.30pm see image below  (For anyone that doesn't have a ticket for the afternoon register separately via this link)


Simply click through Give as You Live every time you shop online to raise money for Creativity Works
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Creativity Works | 01761 438852 | info@creativityworks.org.uk | http://www.creativityworks.org.uk
Leigh House
1 Wells Road
Radstock
Bath, BA3 3RN
Supported by:

BANES-Council


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Registered Charity No. 1075812 Company No. 3768255 Creativity Works for Everyone is a company limited by guarantee registered in England