Jackie, Kim and Maureen install new work at RF Head Office, Holloway Road

March 29th 2012. Each of the 4000 colour swatches were created by Art Matters and the local community.

World Mental Health Day at East Surrey College 2011

Brewers and Art Matters: Bring Color to the Community

On 14th-16th September 2011, as part of the celebration of the centenary of Brewers in Redhill, Art Matters constructed this colour totem outside Brewers' premises. Brewers' customers and other passers-by were invited to take away their favourite colored square, each an original art work from the Art Matters studio.

The colour totem is an interactive art installation constructed to celebrate and embrace the healing qualities of colour within our community. Brewers and Art Matters are working in partnership, inspired by a love of colour, which they believe has the potential to positively enhance our communities, homes, health and lives.

Norbury Park Wood Products

Art Matters exhibited at the Norbury Park Wood Products Open Day at Mickleham on 10th and 11th September. Further details on Norbury Park's website.

 

Daisy (Disability Arts in Surrey)

On 20th May 2011, Art Matters created this colourful sand mandala at the Daisy (Disability Arts in Surrey) event at Bourne Hall, Ewell

 

Surrey Artists Open Studios, June 2011

Surrey Artists meeting at Art Matters in March to discuss this year's

Open Studios event in June.

Surrey Mental Health event

Art Matters and friends created this amazing Sand Mandala at the

Surrey Mental Health event, Reigate Manor Hotel 27th January 2011

Art Matters is a community arts project based in Redhill, Surrey, and is part of the mental health charity Richmond Fellowship (RF). The studio is a centre of wellbeing, creativity and growth, providing an individual, person centred and supportive environment in which artists are encouraged to explore their creative curiosity and develop skills and confidence.

Art Matters works in partnership with schools and colleges in a range of creative initiatives, sharing a philosophy to promote mental health and wellbeing. Art Matters works closely with partners in providing advice and support in community activities and providing a stepping stone to further education and employment.

Sarah's journey

My name is Sarah and I was unwell for many years. My CPN saw some of my drawings and encouraged me to join Art Matters. I was impressed after visiting and couldn't wait to get started in the Autumn term. I started on Mosaics, enjoying the process and, gradually and with support, started to plan my paintings. How wonderful it became to create a piece of art! As I gained in confidence I became part of the Service User Involvement Forum and then on to 'Chair' the meetings. My knowledge in science enabled me to contribute to the Art Matters Business Plan as the lead for environment issues. My work progressed, and I took up evening portrait workshops at Art Matters under the guidance of artist Adele Wagstaff. As time has gone on I have played a part in organizing and running meditation workshops. Coming up to the end of my residency I was supported by the Richmond Fellowship in considering other opportunities and have now been offered a place at Croydon Art College doing a Foundation Course. I hope to continue to have links with Art Matters. I owe them a huge debt of gratitude and would never have considered a career pathway in art had I not had their support.

Sarah. September 2010.

Who is Art & Craft Matters open to?

Art & Craft Matters core daytime activities are open to adults with mental health needs, living in East and Mid-Surrey, with an interest or desire to explore creativity.

Evening and weekend courses will be open to the general public, and to specific groups and individuals, depending on the course.

The Referral Process

Referrals are welcome from GPs, healthcare and social professionals, mental health teams, social services, occupational therapists and support workers, and carers.

Referral forms, course applications, events and information booklets should be available across East & Mid-Surrey in GP surgeries, Mental Health Services, Social Services, Community and Civic Centres, Libraries and Sports Centres.

Hours of Operation

Main programme – Monday to Friday 9:30am - 4:00pm