Issue 27

Art, Craft and Pottery at Caswell

My name is Louise and I′m the latest Technician to join the Occupational Therapy Team. I have taken on the responsibility of facilitating the Art, Craft and Pottery groups as well as helping Anthony in the garden and with the Computer Group.

I have been here two months and they have flown by. I am absolutely loving my new job; the people that I′m working with and the great things I get to do every day.

The Tuesday morning Art Group was the first to get up and running and with the expert assistance of David from Cardigan it has been going really well. We have a fantastically resourced workshop so you can try your hand at almost any medium. You can start with charcoal or pencil sketching or if you′re feeling more adventurous you can have a go at painting in watercolours, acrylics or even oils. The group is well attended and the feedback has been very positive, with patients saying that they find it relaxing and enjoyable. Many of those who have been attending have submitted works to the 2010 Koestler Awards and we are hoping to arrange a trip to see the exhibition later this year. We are also looking for submissions for next years awards so if you′re feeling creative and would like to share your work with a wider audience we would love to have you involved.

The Craft Group running on Tuesday afternoons gives you the opportunity to try a whole wealth of craft activities from mosaicing, weaving and paper-making to jewelry making, fabric painting and batik. The group is currently making a scarecrow for the clinic garden and having great fun with its papier-mache head and hands! Keep your eyes open as hopefully it′ll be appearing in the garden soon. If you have any ideas for another group project I would love to hear them!

The ladies of Newton Ward have been very industrious in recent weeks, making cards and envelopes which will shortly be available to buy in the UFG shop. They have made cards for a variety of occasions and will happily take orders for personalised cards. The order form will be available during shop opening times or on Newton.

The Thursday afternoon Pottery Group has recently started up again and so far is going very well. We have a good selection of molds including a dragon, tiger and horse, chess pieces, vases, mugs and a tea pot. We also have throwing clay which can be used for making free-form models or coil or slab pots or if you′re feeling brave enough you can even use the potter′s wheel!

I hope that this has given you a taster of what is on offer in the workshop and inspires you to get involved. If you are interested in attending any of the groups please speak to your Occupational Therapist who can discuss making a referral.

Louise T, OT Tech