The exhibition at Fair Havens hospice in Prittlewell, Southend-on-Sea, showcased over 30 pieces of artwork, including acrylics and watercolours to embroidery and creative writing, all created by patients living with incurable illnesses. There was also the opportunity for people to get creative and take part in activities such as pebble painting and memory box decorating.
The artwork on show had all been created by adults supported by the hospices’ Wellbeing Team through various creative therapy workshops and one-to-one sessions. The Wellbeing Team at Fair Havens provides support for patients and families who have been referred to the hospice, offering a range of life-enhancing therapies, all designed to enhance the wellbeing of the patients they care for, as well as reduce their anxiety and boost their self-esteem. The creative therapy workshops and sessions also allow them to learn new skills, meet new people, rediscover artistic passions and create lasting memories for loved ones.
Amongst some of the artwork were collages created in the ‘I AM’ workshop, which aimed to provide a space for patients to reflect on the things that are most important to them and express this using colour, textures, and words.
The exhibition was a great success, attended by over 70 people, including patients, families, and friends. It celebrated the wonderful creations made by patients, shared the benefits of creative therapy, and encouraged others who may not be accessing the service to attend future workshops.
Christine Harris, Supportive Therapies Lead at Havens Hospices, said, “It was lovely to see everyone’s hard work in one place and so many people enjoying the artwork. The Art Exhibition was a fantastic success, and I am immensely proud of all those involved.”
Sharon Auger-Forbes, the daughter of a patient who attends the creativity therapy sessions, said, “It was a privilege to have a glimpse of the different types of work patients choose to express their rainbow of emotions. It was so moving, and the work was exquisite. My mum and I have been so lucky to work with the Creative Therapy Team these past few weeks at Fair Havens. We’ve both embraced what creative art is all about – it’s not just the work itself; it’s the people, revisiting moments of good and not-so-good times, sharing laughter and tears, feeling safe and having a complete distraction from everything else going on.”
Fair Havens provides care and support to adults living with incurable conditions in Southend, Castle Point and Rochford. Their services are provided free of charge and include the whole family, helping them make the most of life and make every day count.
To learn more about Fair Havens and how you can support them, visit www.havenshospices.org.uk/fair-havens.
Published 29th August 2024
