Independent Arts runs around 25 creative workshops each week, supporting the wellbeing of people of all ages.
More than half take place at our Creative Hub in Newport High Street, others in various community settings around the Island.
Even if you’re not taking part in one of our weekly art, mindfulness or singing sessions, it’s always worth popping into our Creative Hub to see the wonderful and diverse exhibitions of participants’ work – and look out for our one-off events and workshops; there could be something just right for you, or someone you know.
Exhibitions
4th October - 26th November. An exciting and diverse exhibition of work created in residential settings.
Creative Health charity Independent Arts is celebrating age this Autumn with a special mixed media art exhibition created by residents from 13 care homes across the Island during the past year. On display are works inspired by Monet’s ‘Waterlilies’, Matisse, painted seascapes, a sensory garden, along with modern sculpture, photographs, textiles, ceramics, and mosaics. The unique exhibition was curated by the charity’s team Nicola Ward, Kerry Tindall and Jo Rigby to showcase the amazing talent of both residents and the dedication of professional arts practitioners who supported them, Kirstie Hayler, Lou Elliott, Miranda Amapola and Davina Smith. “Last time we displayed art created by care home residents everyone was hugely inspired and this time our elders have done it again!” says chief executive Lisa Gagliani. “It’s simply amazing how taking part in some form of creative activity can unlock hidden talent - along with happy memories. We can all learn something from this this poignant reflection of creative ageing.” Independent Arts delivers music and crafts to more than 30 care homes across the Isle of Wight. Called ‘Workshops for Wellbeing’ these paid-for workshops are more than simply entertaining activities for elderly residents, with a focus on wellbeing and reminiscence of happy memories. In the past year alone 10,600 care home residents enjoyed one or more activities delivered by Independent Arts through their 20 highly skilled and vetted professional arts practitioners. The Island-only charity also offers bespoke one to one art workshops to residents who are elderly, have dementia or to adults with learning difficulties. Anyone can visit the Exhibition, which is open Monday to Friday 10am-4.30pm and on Saturdays 12-2pm at Independent Arts Creative Hub, 48/49 High Street, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 1SE. Entrance is free, but donations are very much appreciated by cash, debit card or monthly standing order. For more information about the services Independent Arts provides to Island care homes, visit www.independentarts.org.uk/join-in/for-carehomes/
Events
Join us at our creative hub in Newport to produce your own festive felt decorations. This workshop is designed for beginners. Only running stitch is required to participate. Materials included, hot drinks and mince pies provided! Joining this workshop will help support our work to improve the lives of socially isolated residents here on the Isle of Wight. Get crafting and help us make a difference! Tickets can be purchased here. 10 places available.
Join us Saturday 6th May 11am-6pm
