Lockdown life has highlighted the need to adapt and strengthen Stanley Picker Gallery’s digital offer, and it is more important than ever for us to provide opportunities for individuals to engage with their own creativity. We are excited by the chance to collaborate and experiment with learning disability charity United Response and their successful virtual art group, to help expand its scope and boost the social and creative wellbeing of attendees during the second lockdown.
The art group has flourished since moving from face-to-face to online Zoom sessions during the first coronavirus lockdown and has this summer hosted its own virtual exhibition and ran a fundraising scheme to equip its participants with bespoke art pack.
The new partnership with United Response has been established to offer a fun, interactive and educational journey through the art world for members of the charity’s digital group. The collaboration, which is taking place in the form of a four-week project across Autumn 2020, is seeing the group join virtual guided tours of the Gallery and our partner venue Dorich House Museum, and take part in a variety of workshops focusing on creating sketchbooks, badge-making, illusion art, and drawing skills. Participants have also had the opportunity to meet graduating Master of Fine Arts students from Kingston University, who have led workshops inspired by their practice, and gain valuable experience working with members of our local learning disability community. The Gallery is donating packs containing pens, pencils, paper and other resources, to ensure all are equipped with the necessary materials to enjoy getting creative.
We’re excited about this partnership with such a respected gallery and key part of Kingston’s art scene. Not only will it give the participants the opportunity to learn from experts about different artists and art forms, but it will also build a strong, community focused link between ourselves and the gallery. All whilst supporting the social wellbeing of some of the people we support during undoubtedly difficult times. Matthew Campbell, United Response
To visit the art group’s digital exhibition and gallery, or donate to their art pack scheme please visit www.unitedresponseartgallery.com