A new scheme aimed at helping people who are living with depression, anxiety and other emotional disorders will be available through Gwynedd Council’s Museums and Arts Services.
The innovative Arteffact scheme is available in Gwynedd, Anglesey, Conwy and Denbighshire and is funded by the Welsh Government’s CyMAL (Museums, Archives and Libraries Service).
The project aims to help people’s emotional wellbeing and mental health by offering art workshops and creative activities with professional artists at the participant’s local museum – the Gwynedd Museum and Gallery at Bangor for people living in Gwynedd.
Gwawr Wyn Roberts, Gwynedd Council’s Community Arts Development Officer and Trainee Art Psychotherapist, said: “It has long been recognised that having a creative outlet and a chance to take part in the arts can have positive impact on a person’s wellbeing.
“People who sign up to this scheme will take part in a ten-week course where they have the chance to spend time at a museum to create artwork inspired by the museum collections. They will be part of a small, supportive group and guided by a professional community artist.
“It is a great opportunity to regain confidence, learn new skills and share the experience with new people.
“If you think that you, or someone you know, could benefit from this exciting scheme, contact Arteffact for a relevant form.”
To take part in the Arteffact programme, a person will need to provide the details of a health professional that can provide a reference regarding any mental health disorders such as a GP, social worker, nurse or support worker.
For more information about the programme, and to receive an application form, contact Annes Siôn at Gwynedd Council’s Community Arts Unit on 01286 679721 or email [email protected]
