Art on the Allotment

Thanks to a grant from the JG Graves Trust we were happy to be able to offer a series of creative sessions over Summer 2021 at Darnall Allotment Project.

photo of group of people in sunshine at allotment with artwork
Participants sharing their artwork

Twenty seven people joined us over the course of six 2 hour sessions, creating all kinds of beautiful content: paintings, drawings, poetry and needlework. Watercolours, pastels, crayons, acrylic paints, chalks and oil paints were used on boards and canvases to create the artworks, and at three of the sessions, the participants also enjoyed sharing in produce from the allotment and tasting different foods. All the sessions also incorporated memory and reminiscence work, to build in a level of support for participants with Dementia. Participants were from a variety of different ethnic groups, and 70% of those attending stated that they have carer responsibilities.

In addition to everyone who came along in person, four participants had ‘Art Goodie Bags’ dropped off to their homes, to enable them to join in whilst they were unable to attend sessions in person.

photo of bags of craft supplies
Art Goodie Bags ready to be delivered

So much was done at these sessions that we’ve made a short video to share what everyone got up to! Why not take a couple of minutes to have a look? We’re sure it will brighten your day!

Some of the participants were so enthusiastic about the sessions that, even though the initial funding has now run out, they are continuing to meet and run the sessions. If you would like to take part, or if you know someone who would, please contact us for more information about how to join them.

Feedback on the sessions

I would just like to say a big thank you to you for this excellent piece of work, the planning and attention to detail, hospitality and friendship has made such a difference to my life and that of my wife and granddaughter who cares for me in my forgetfulness.  I have come to life with my drawings!

Mr James Storey

I couldn’t attend straight away it took time to build up my confidence in coming out again, but I did it! I have thoroughly enjoyed this and my art bag…. Thank you

Margaret

This has made such a difference to my wellbeing, I don’t want this to end!

Art on the Allotment participant

Brilliant, just brilliant!

Art on the Allotment participant

We hope to be back with more of these sessions next year!