Episode 3 is out and we’re delving deeper into the role of the artist in society, and specifically clay as a tool to support those in mental health crisis, with disability and those effected by dementia. There’s a long history of art therapy and I’m sure plenty of science to back up what we, as artists working with vulnerable communities, witness – that clay and the arts are good for the soul and integral to a wholehearted life. It can even be life saving.
I’m not and do not pretend to be a medical professional or to have any training in social care, and most of the amazing artists I speak to in this episode are just that – artists, not medical professionals! However, what we have to offer this sector is something truly amazing, and with the right support, something transformational can happen. Dementia sufferers can learn new skills, people who’ve experienced trauma can reconnect to the world, and those with disabilities can improve their quality of life. There’s some really uplifting stories and testimonials in this episode, and hopefully some new ideas and proof that we’d all be better off with clay and art as a central column of our life.
Brigit Connolly https://www.rca.ac.uk/students/brigit-connolly/
Janna Edwards 15 Days in Clay www.15daysinclay.co.uk
Helen Lee @helenleeceramics
Katie Spragg @katie_spragg_ceram and Janine Nelson @gardenmuseum