empower
“Permission to switch off. I never thought about it like that – how beneficial is that! so simple. So effective.”
Wates Group
During the early days of the pandemic, MOOD Scio and Albatross Arts CIC pulled their areas of expertise to co-design and deliver a structured, creative arts pilot programme aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of adults living in isolation in the West Lothian area. Individuals were supported to learn new skills and connect with others in a series of professional artist-lead, online workshops as part of their John Muir award. The workshops were a catalyst to nurture new friendships and new hobbies. Participants shared feedback about how they had grown in both creative confidence and self esteem through this programme.
” I’ve been been on a fatigue management course for medical reasons. It was suggested I do something light an hour before getting ready for bed. In used what I’d learn in the workshops and made it my chill out time. The benefits of doing art were amazing. Thanks you, I’ve found my passion for art again! “
“Permission to switch off. I never thought about it like that – how beneficial is that! so simple. So effective.”
“OMG you guys are amazing. I’m blown away!”
“Thank you so much for a lovely art session. It was very calming and good for the soul, please hold more events like this.”
“I’m so proud of the number of such high quality sessions that have been delivered. It has also been amazing to see the impact that these sessions have had on the people that we support.”
“We are excited for the next year ahead and expect the programme to grow year by year . We now have an opportunity to put in place a sustainable plan to enable the delivery of the brilliant Albatross Art sessions that have had a big impact on the people that we support.” (Arts & Wellbeing Team – Sense UK)
“What a great way to feel connected and part of the community. We can’t wait to see the art displayed in the town. What a fantastic way to bring people together and encourage us to all feel proud of our town”
“Has worked wonders for my mental health after months of lockdown. Your body gets a bit of exercise and you open your eyes to a bit of culture, things you would probably not see otherwise.”
“If I hadn’t come today I would have been sitting at home on my own. I used to spend a lot of time at home alone. I got used to it. I didn’t realise how detrimental it was to my mental health. I just accepted it, it was normal”
“Probably the best and most meaningful business plan engagement I have ever had. For Albatross Arts this is not just a paperwork exercise”
“Working with Albatross Arts is money well spent. They are passionate about what they do and this shines through while they are working with participants engaged in their programmes.”
“OMG I didn’t think I could do this and I didn’t really think I wanted to, to be honest, but it was awesome. I loved it and everyone at my table did too. I’m pretty proud of myself. “
“Fun, creative, cool, brilliant, artistic, exciting, imaginative, awesome, gooey!”
“ Being able to join this group online has been a lifeline for me. I don’t feel so alone and I know that others are in this situation. I have felt really supported. I would love to carry on making with the group. “
“Screaming maelstrom stills. Sunlit thoughts meander through. Joyous calm creeps in.” (Haiku poem by Lillias)