A group of blind and partially sighted artists in Southport were able to continue with their creative classes thanks to a grant from the Liverpool Charity and Voluntary Services.
The group, which was founded by sight loss charity Galloway’s, will benefit from a £1,000 grant which will help to pay for art materials and tuition.
Work from the group has been exhibited in several exhibitions across Sefton and Lancashire and was even shown as part of an exhibition to commemorate the centenary of Armistice Day.
For artist Mandy Briggs, who lost her sight as a child, the art group has provided a welcome source of friendship and support.
The 50-year-old said: “It’s such a valuable social network for me. I really look forward to going to the art classes. I have met so many new friends there.
“I’m really proud of the art work I have created at the group. Some people were even offering to buy our work when it was exhibited. It has really helped my confidence. I now feel that I can get up and help others which is a wonderful feeling.
“I think that visually impaired people are often overlooked when it comes to things like art. I would never have done anything like the activities we took part in if it was not for the art group. They have helped us to bring our community of people with sight loss together.”
Julie James-Turner, an art teacher at Galloway’s who specialises in teaching art to blind and partially sighted people, believes that the arts are an important tool in helping people with sight loss to find confidence.
She said: “The arts can be hugely positive for blind and partially sighted people.
“Continuing to be creative as a person with sight loss is so important as it gives a valuable opportunity for personal expression as well as instilling and maintaining confidence and a sense of achievement.
“Being creative as a process is also well known as being therapeutic, cathartic and soothing for those feeling anxious and with low mood.”
More than 11,000 people are currently living with sight loss in Sefton. By 2030, this figure is predicted to increase by 20%.
For more information about how you can get involved please visit www.galloways.org.uk
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