Artspace – Transforming Lives Through Art
Tucked away in a covert corner of the Bristol Estate, there’s a dedicated, community-based studio space for people with experience of mental health issues, and it’s vibrant, inclusive and transforming the lives of its members.
Artspace is an arts and mental health charity that aims to increase opportunities for communities to engage with art activities. It’s a stable and supportive space where people can discover how creativity can support their mental health and personal recovery.
On a mission to learn about Artspace, it was wonderful to be invited along to meet some of the studio members and discover more.
Stepping into Artspace, I’m met with a distinctly lively and warm atmosphere, initially meeting with project volunteer and trustee Jane and her dog Billy, in a bustling corner of the open-plan studio.
Over a coffee, Jane tells me more about the project:
“Artspace was set up about 8 years ago, and it’s just kept going. We’re a small charity and as long as we can just tick over, that’s the main thing.”
The charity is completely volunteer-run, and is funded by several trusts, foundations, and individual donors. Many of their art resources are directly donated as well.
“We have a big spectrum in terms of need with different members at different stages of their recovery journey and it’s very rewarding to be a part of it.”
Often joining to share a space alongside other artists, to develop new skills, and to explore their creativity, members decide which creative avenues they want to pursue, with guidance tailored to everyone’s individual interests.
Jane spoke about how she got involved in Artspace:
“I used to be a headteacher, but the focus was on results, and funding cuts meant the very kids that needed the arts were deprived of their creative opportunities.
I got involved in Artspace because there’s a history of mental health in my family. I saw a presentation about Artspace at a book launch and it ticked all the boxes for me as it was all about art and mental health.”
The eye-catching art that surrounds us in this colourful hive of creative activity is distracting and dynamic, and I’m eager to meet some of the artists and hear more about the project.
Studio member and volunteer Sean spoke about his journey with Artspace while taking a break from carving out a linocut beetle that’s both intricate and beautiful.
“The two days that I come here are the best two days of the week. Being here is a real privilege and it’s like my family, this place.”
Studio member Sarah spoke about the social environment fostered by the studio:
“We all support and encourage each other because everyone’s got different strengths.”
The artwork on the walls and the works of art in progress around the studio are simply amazing, with crocheting, painting, and lino-cutting taking place in this supportive and creative space.
Other studio members spoke about Artspace benefitting them in terms of their self-esteem, and how it gives members a place to learn valuable skills which can be therapeutic both emotionally and socially.
The collaborative environment helps to combat isolation by providing a place in the community where people can also develop a sense of belonging and build social networks.
There are opportunities for studio members to publicly exhibit their artwork, opening up positive and inclusive dialogues externally, in turn reducing prejudice and misunderstanding around mental health issues. Members are also supported to access art events and galleries, and there are ‘Walk and Draw’ outings in the Sussex countryside as well.
It was an honor to spend time at Artspace and hear about how much the studio means to their incredibly talented and creative members.
If you’d like to read more about Artspace, the link to their website is here.