Thanks to your donations, patients at the Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre (HRC) are working on a series of artworks with the help of an Artist in Residence.
THRF Group – Creative Health Artist in Residence, Amanda Chalmer has been working with patients from Ward 2A since June this year.
The theme The Shape of Me provides participants with an artistic opportunity to create artwork that represents aspects of themselves, their rehabilitation journey and their hopes for the future.
During the sessions Amanda will offer practical art examples, demonstrations and ‘step by step’ guides for the art activities with materials such as charcoal, pastels, inks, acrylic watercolour paint, coloured pencils and markers.
“There has been a lot of research on the benefits of the arts in the context of health and rehabilitation, and it has been proven to build fine motor skills and neural connections, enhance creative abilities, encourage imagination, improve communication, boost self-esteem, and build connections and community,” Amanda said.
“Hopefully, they will learn new skills and ways of creating and expressing themselves.
“Just the action ‘of doing’ and interacting with others is beneficial.
“As a practitioner experiencing first-hand the importance of art therapy as I navigated my way through a cancer diagnosis, treatment and recovery, I wanted to share my skills and passion with others who would benefit from the opportunity the project will provide.
“I am looking forward to providing an experience that participants will enjoy.’’
Artworks created during the residency will be on display in the THRF Group – Creative Health Gallery at the Hampstead Rehabilitation Centre early next year.
We look forward to sharing the collaborative effort!
