What's On

An exhibition featuring the works of community groups in Argyll & Bute using a range of media to promote ‘Everyday Creativity’, for mental well-being.

About the project

Between April 2022 and March 2023 Albatross Arts CIC partnered with Alzheimer Scotland, Jean’s Bothy, We Are With You and Fun First to deliver a series of six-week community-based art and wellbeing workshop programmes which provided a platform for connecting unpaid carers and a catalyst to initiate dialogue around shared experiences.

In total more than 45 participants and staff were supported to take part in weekly, artist-led workshops and tried their hands at mosaicing, clay work, textile stencilling and drawing techniques over a cuppa. Groups were kept small so that conversation could flow and relationships form and due attention given with many positive outcomes.

“I’ve really pushed myself doing this. I’m way out of my comfort zone by just being here. But I’ve really enjoyed that weekly challenge and I’ve really enjoyed the company”

- project participant.

Background

As part of the Recovery and Renewal Fund, the Minister for Mental Wellbeing and Social Care announced a new Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund (the Fund) for adults in October 2021, with £15 million being made available in 2021- 22. This was the first year of a two-year fund to support mental health and well-being in communities across Scotland.  The intended outcome of the Fund is to develop a culture of mental well-being and prevention within local communities and across Scotland with improved awareness of how we can all stay well and help ourselves and others.

Funded by the Argyll & Bute Third Sector Interface, Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund.