AS WORCESTERSHIRE’S biggest celebration of creativity looks set to return in a few weeks, organisers are putting artists in the spotlight to showcase the value of art.
Ahead of the return of Worcestershire Open Studios (August 16 to 25) where 167 artists and makers will open up their spaces to the public completely free, our coverage will highlight some running themes of the 10th anniversary event.
Organisers have showcased a few of the artists taking part who are championing the ability of art to help improve health and wellbeing.
First up on the theme of ‘art is good health’ is Paul Newman (venue number – 69) from Evesham – a painter with a passion for colour, realism and abstract depictions of cityscapes. His varied artistic practice reflects his other passions for travel and wildlife.
He was burnt out by business which had a profound effect on his mental health. He took early retirement and having done Art A Level some 40 years ago he rediscovered his passion, which he says has helped no end with his recovery.
He is a keen advocate of art as therapy and donates most of the proceeds from the sale of his art to the mental health charity MIND.
Next up is Clare Wratten (venue number – 99) from Worcester who works on abstract pieces inspired by earthy tones and textures. She started painting at a very difficult time after her brother died of cancer.
Immersing herself in art helped with her grief. She did a degree in ceramics in her late thirties and can see the similarity between working with clay and the highly textured paintings she creates.
She believes practicing art can provide relief to those suffering from the impact of both mental and physical ill health and says it is never too late to start.
And last but not least is artist Deborah Watton (venue number – 55) from Feckenham. Deborah took up photography to help with anxiety and a lack of confidence after running an online business for many years.
Her aim was to capture the flowers and wildlife she loves but unfortunately she was prevented from continuing due to a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.
The local art group, which she had recently joined, encouraged her to try other mediums, where a steady hand was less of a requisite and she now draws with coloured pencils and graphite.
She is also studying with the Society of Botanical Artists and draws wildlife and plants. She believes practicing art can provide relief to those suffering from the impact of both mental and physical ill health and says it is never too late to start.
Deborah added: “Whilst MS still impacts my life and continues to progress, I have a very different and positive outlook on life.”
All of these artists, alongside over 160 more, will be opening their creative spaces to visitors to see behind the curtain of Worcestershire’s greatest creative minds.
Visit www.worcestershireopenstudios.org/artists-and-makers/ and search for the artists to learn more and see their work.
