A NEW service which supports artists who have learning difficulties is to launch in Frome with a taster sessions taking place at the end of the month.
Artbox Frome has been set up by local woman, Jessica Silver, based on the model of Artbox London which has been supporting artists with learning difficulties for seven years.
Jessica said, “Our aim is to support people with learning disabilities to be involved in the art community here in Frome and to celebrate their amazing creativity. We are soon to be launching our studio sessions that will run regularly on a Saturday at the Hubnub centre and to celebrate we are running a free taster session on the 29th April. These sessions are where people with learning disabilities can come together to make some art and explore their own individual style whilst being supported by our friendly and creative volunteers.
“At the taster session we will have lots of different art materials for everyone to try different techniques including painting, drawing and print making. We will do some fun creative activities, get inspired by looking at some artists’ work and everyone can make their own individual art works. The taster session will be from 10am-1pm, and we welcome everyone whether they are new to art and want to try it out, or already have many artistic talents.
“In the future we will be putting on exhibitions and selling art and prints, hopefully at the Frome Independent Market. We really want everyone to be able to enjoy the art that is made at Artbox and we want the artists to feel appreciated for the work that they do by earning some money from the sales of their artworks. We hope to run a summer school in August that will be aimed at young people and include a pop up exhibition.
“Artbox Frome has received start up funding from the Big Lottery Fund, and I am currently on the Lloyds Bank Social Entrepreneurs Programme which involves a year-long business course delivered by the School of Social Entrepreneurs, a business mentor and the start-up grant.
“Artbox has so far been made possible by a small and committed group of volunteers. To help us grow and be successful we are on the look out for volunteers with enthusiasm to improve the lives of people with a learning disability. To get involved with Artbox Frome as a volunteer, to come along to the taster sessions or to find out more we can be contacted on info@artboxfrome.org Our website is www.artboxfrome.org.
“The studio sessions will be charged on a sliding scale up to £15 for 3 hours depending on individual circumstances.
“To book a place on the taster session, please email me.”
