Creative sessions for adults ran by artist Syrah Arnolds to come to Wisbech in June

A Fenland artist is offering up wellbeing sessions for adults “in need of some time out”.

Syrah Arnold is putting on the sessions at St Peter’s Church Hall in Wisbech and will use art techniques “suitable for all activities”, helping adults relax and benefiting their mental wellbeing.

Sessions will be taking place every Friday in June.

Anybody over the age of 18 can book to join in the creative fun for just £2 per hour.

Syrah said: “I’m really excited to be able to offer these sessions to adults who perhaps would benefit from doing something away from the norm. The sessions are for anyone over the age of 18, and people absolutely do not need to consider themselves to be ‘an artist’ in order to join in.

“Art and creativity are powerful tools which can help each of us find positive ways to relax more and find a calmness which is often missing in everyday life.”

The first free sessions will run from 9.30am until 12pm, with the final session taking place slightly longer until 2pm.

Syrah has nearly 40 years’ experience working with diverse groups as an arts facilitator, as well as many professional years working as a commercial illustrator and fine artist.

She currently runs monthly creative sessions for adults with multiple sclerosis, and has worked with adults with dementia, adults in care-home settings, homeless people and those with mental health issues.

Syrah added: “If you are looking for work, these sessions may help you build some confidence in expressing yourself, and will develop creative problem-solving and presentation skills.

“If you’re a parent, the timing is perfect – just before the summer holidays. Start this summer feeling a little bit more relaxed and pick up some creative ideas to share with your children.

“If you care in any capacity for someone else, I absolutely invite you to come and recharge your batteries a little.

“Caring for others starts with caring for ourselves, even with just a few creative hours away from the norm.”

Rev Ruth Clay from St Wendreda’s Church, March, said: "Syrah gave a lot of support in planning and delivery of creative sessions at St Wendreda's Church last year. We received so much amazing feedback, and Syrah was absolutely fab.

“She's a gifted lady with a great way with people.”

Syrah, a mother of one, added: “It is very hard for so many people juggling all the concerns that we share in our society.

“As a parent and a carer, I know how difficult making even an hour in a week for one’s own creativity and mental well-being can be. But I also know how vital making that time for oneself is, and I encourage anyone reading this to take a little time out for his or her well-being, which will also benefit their families and other loved ones.

“One of the best comments I have recently received from an older adult living in a care home was ‘We're not artists, but when we're doing this with you, we forget all our worries’. I feel that says it all really.”

Syrah’s June creative well-being sessions have been made possible with funding from Fenland District Council and the Fenland Cultural Fund.

To book to join a session, text Syrah on 07481073878.