MONDAY, 27 MARCH, 2017

EMBARGOED UNTIL PHOTO CALL: 2.45PM, WEDNESDAY, 29 MARCH, NEW KIRK (ST AIDAN’S CENTRE) BROOK STREET, BROUGHTY FERRY, DD5 2DA

Tayside Healthcare Arts Trust hosts art display in Broughty Ferry

Artwork created by participants in the Tayside Healthcare Arts Trust (THAT) creative engagement programme went on display in Broughty Ferry today.

The exhibition at the New Kirk St Aidan’s Centre concludes an eight-week art programme designed to encourage people affected by health issues to explore and develop their creativity in a group environment.

The participants explored a variety of techniques to create their art work, such as mark making, water colours and wax and ink resist.

The programme has been delivered by THAT lead artist Bruce Shaw and volunteer artist Eleanor Begg. MS Society volunteer Daniela de Amici also provided support.

Bruce said, “I have really enjoyed trying to encourage and build on people’s confidence and the group has produced some very unique art works.”

Daniela added “This is a really new experience in visual arts for me and I am astonished at the therapeutic effect it has on people. It has been a very good way to get to know people and create a new peer support group, which is very valuable for everyone.”

The programme was funded and supported by the Dundee branch of the MS society and has been supported by NHS Tayside MS specialist nurses and occupational therapy staff.

THAT project development officer Karine Neill said, “It is really wonderful to see participants enjoy their experience and feel so relaxed trying new skills. It has been great to see the development and the individual artworks.”

The THAT programmes are designed to encourage people affected by health issues to explore and develop their creativity and recognise their abilities and talents. THAT actively promotes and develops creative and interesting ways of including the arts within healthcare settings across Tayside.

For further information please contact Karine Neill by telephone 01382 835509 or email: kneill@nhs.net

Contact:

Debbie Huband

NHS Tayside Communications

(01382) 740134