Over the past few months, a group of adults with learning disabilities at the Canolfan Padarn day services centre, Llanbadarn have been working with local art trail artist Jeni Pain, (The Shed by the Stream) exploring the topic of ‘The Year of the Sea’ in ceramic, including discussion of what the sea means to us, what we love about Aberystwyth and the issues around plastic pollution.
The therapeutic benefits of engaging with art and working with clay are well known and the group focused on working collaboratively, fostering a spirit of team and inclusivity, learning and using new skills as well as reinforcing and building on existing skills, recognising and celebrating the individual participants and their diversity as well as challenging preconceptions.
With a background in working in learning disability, Jeni is passionate about the benefits of engaging with art and in particular the medium of clay for well-being and the opportunity for development of an individual’s skills and confidence. Jeni said, “It has been a pleasure to work with the group. It is fantastic to have their work on display and for people to see what we have achieved.”
The culmination of the project was an exhibition of the work at Canolfan Rheidol Council Offices from 30 July to 3 August.
Councillor Alun Williams, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Adult Services said, “Canolfan Padarn’s Year of the Sea art display was spectacular and it’s evident to see that a lot of time and effort had gone into making the craftwork. Well done to the whole team! It’s wonderful to hear of these enriching opportunities for our service users.”
Although the exhibition has now ended, items may still be purchased by contacting Darren Phillips at Canolfan Padarn on 01970 624907.
22/08/2018