|
Companionship
and camaraderie are as much a feature of the Ringfield Close Art
and Design Group in Nailsworth as the art work itself.
But
as well as enjoying a pleasant afternoon with friends the group
members, mainly from the nearby sheltered housing, take their art
very seriously.
By
marketing their finished products, the group is able to raise funds
to buy further raw materials for new projects - and to enjoy the
occasional afternoon out.
The
members are always keen to try new techniques and, with the oldest
student aged 92 and the youngest around 65, age is never a barrier
to the learning process.
Many
of their new skills are passed on to the younger generation outside
the classes, with some grandchildren delighting at the chance to
drop in to the sessions during school holidays.
I love the company and the creativity. We
have surprised ourselves by what we can do - most of us have
never tried anything except a bit of knitting or sewing before. |
| A
member of Ringfield Close Art and Design Group |
One
member of the group explained: "I love the company and the creativity.
It is very relaxing and the two hours just fly by. It takes your
mind off other problems.
"For
some members, if they didn't come here, they wouldn't go anywhere.
"We
have surprised ourselves by what we can do - most of us have never
tried anything except a bit of knitting or sewing before."
The
students are pleased that their tutor, who comes to the group from
Stroud College, allows them to work at their own pace, and they
have praised her patience and kindness.
Already
the group has tried jewellery-making, silk painting, decoupage and
a wide range of other techniques.
The
finished products, made to a very high standard, have been displayed
at Shire Hall.
Some
have been sold, with the money going into a kitty for group funds.
The
skills learned here have also helped some members to look at interior
design in their own homes.
>>Back
to Adult Learners Week 2003
|
