Mercian Residents Exhibit Art Made in Haven
Elderly residents of Mercian Housing Association’s sheltered scheme, Haven Court in Erdington, held an art exhibition last night to showcase their achievements as a result of an art project they have been working on since March this year.
The residents, who range in age from 60 to 90, produced an impressive collection of more than 30 paintings and collages on canvas.
The project was co-ordinated by Haven Court’s Sheltered Scheme Officer, Julie Wykes to encourage residents to learn new skills and make new friends and was supported by a small grant from Birmingham City Council’s Community Arts Team, through its Community Arts Officer, Patrick Hayes. Some enthusiastic new talent has emerged, under the guidance of talented artist Mr Ev Beard from Inscapes, assisted by three members of Erdington Arts Forum, Chris West, Heather Roland and Joan Mensor.
Ev commented: “We have been working with the residents of Haven Court at weekly art classes since March and we have been amazed by their enthusiasm for this project. Not only has it given them a new interest to share, it also gives them the opportunity to meet up, have a chat and form new friendships.
“Even new residents have been inspired to participate in the art sessions, having been impressed by the work of their peers and an exhibition of new work is being arranged for display at Erdington Library in the near future.”
Speaking at the event, Julie Wykes said: “The residents have thoroughly enjoyed working on this project and I’m really impressed with their paintings. And it goes to show you’re never too old to learn a new skill – the oldest resident who took part is 90 years old!”
Hazel Ferriday, resident at Haven Court said, “I think the classes are wonderful and those of us who have taken part are very grateful to Julie for organising them. I really look forward to them. Sometimes I look at my work and think, that’s really good - I’m sure I didn’t do that!”
This event highlights Mercian’s vision of enhancing Life Chances, by providing a great opportunity for residents to work together creatively on this community arts project.
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Press Enquiries please contact Vicky Marshall on 0121 322 7391 or email vmarshall@mercian.org.uk.