PEOPLE living with Parkinson’s in Newport and the surrounding areas of Gwent are being invited to try a free arts class which is aiming to help more people to live well in a fun and social way.
Creative Roots is an arts class with a difference, as it not only offers a creative outlet for people living with Parkinson’s, but the classes also incorporate movement to help prepare participants for creative activities.
The project is being delivered over a 16-week period and will include a range of creative activities that will give participants an opportunity to explore drawing, painting, print making and movement exercises with professional artists.
The focus of the classes is on doing, creating, playing with materials to develop new ideas and help remember old techniques.
Delivered by local arts and creative company, Das Clarks, the sessions are designed to be a friendly and relaxing way to enjoy painting, crafts and performance arts.
The classes last for 90 minutes and are designed for all ages and abilities to take part, regardless of experience. Anyone with a connection to Parkinson’s, including relatives, carers and members of the community are also welcome to join in or to socialise with others.
The creative arts can support people to live well with Parkinson’s. Art is proven to have many benefits for people living with Parkinson’s and other neurological conditions. These can include:
- improved coordination, particularly with hand-eye coordination
- better mood and feeling of wellbeing
- reduced stress and anxiety
- more social opportunities
Gareth Clark, Instructor at Creative Roots, said: “It’s great to be able to work with the local Parkinson’s community and to receive the support from Parkinson’s UK to help deliver more sessions for anyone who wants to try creative arts with the condition.
“The project is grounded in the belief that creativity is for everyone and that art is for all.
“Participants range from people who haven’t picked up a pencil or paintbrush in decades to those with established creative practices.
“By bringing people together, Creative Roots dissolves labels and emphasises the power of shared creative experience. We want as many people living in South Wales to experience the joy of art and show their creative talent.”
- When: Tuesdays in February and March from 11am to 12.30pm (a full list of dates can be found below).
- Where: Stow Park Community Centre, Brynhyfryd Road, Newport, NP20 4FX
- Cost: free
Dates available in February and March:
- Tuesday, February 17
- Tuesday, February 24
- Tuesday, March 3
- Tuesday, March 10
- Tuesday, March 17
- Tuesday, March 31
For more information about the free arts and crafts classes, contact [email protected] or call landline: 01633 843 730, or mobile: 07947 900 282.
