This online arts group explored people, place and friendship during COVID-19. Members of the group were based around the UK and also joined us from other countries.
Some of the group had a lot of experience with art making whilst others were trying things out for the first time. We sent each of our Creativity Club members a pack of basic art materials and over the weeks we worked on themes such as People, Place and Friendship.
We could never have hoped for such a wonderful group of people to come together – each of our members developed their own unique style and we were blown away by the huge range of talents that were uncovered.
A small selection of words and images from the group can be seen below, but the most important and touching thing was to spend time together, get to know one another and see the powerful connections and relationships that formed through creativity.
With thanks to Millie Van Der Byl Williams and Olivia Wood for fantastic facilitation, ideas and support thoughout these activities.
This project has currently ended. If you would like to hear more about the RDS Creativity Club or would like to be informed about similar activities at RDS in the future, please contact Charlie at contact@raredementiasupport.org.
“When we do the calendar, and it says Creativity Club…. mum cheers!! This is the only thing that gets a cheer from her! She loves it very much and very much looks forward to it. It really is a unique and special set up, and I am very lucky to be part. It’s also taught me a lot about Mum, I didn’t realise…. such as her love of the sofa!”
“I was really excited to be part of the Creative Club ……and delighted to receive my pack of materials. I really appreciated having time set aside for me to share creativity with others. It was a safe space which gave me opportunities to try new things and encouraged me to include more art in my daily life – even painting on the beach!”
“I never thought I could draw or paint until I joined the Creativity Club art group. The group has given to me another side of my character that I can use whenever I see something which can be painted or drawn.”
“Creativity has always been part of my life and working career, so when I had to give it up, a devastating part of my life had gone. Then the Creativity Club came along. I found I was surrounded by friendship, brilliant people, nobody judged and best of all we were encouraged to create in our own inimitable way.”
“The Creativity Club is a fun way of bringing people together living with dementia to be creative and have total enjoyment.”
“I thank you for your great opportunity to participate in the Creative Club in 2021 when it means so much to me during the COVID-19 pandemic.”