Therapeutic art sessions at Suffolk Lodge

Residents from Suffolk Lodge, all of whom suffer from a form of dementia, are attending week two of a six-week art course, run by local artist Patrick Harte, this week. The theme will be “shoes and boots”.

The sessions are therapeutic for residents, as well as being a good social activity and one which allows for creative expression. Patrick Harte wanted to expand his experience working with adults with a disability and older people.

He said: “The first class went very well, and it was good to see the residents gaining an opportunity to express themselves creatively. I feel sure that the development of arts and crafts programmes in many of the local care homes would benefit residents greatly.

“I sincerely hope I can bring some of the knowledge I have gained working as an artist and tutor in the Berkshire district and to encourage the elderly to express themselves through drawing, painting, and generally having fun in their retirement years.”

Once the sessions are finished, completed artwork will be hung on the walls of the home.