TUESDAY, 18 NOVEMBER, 2014

EMBARGOED UNTIL PHOTO OPPORTUNITY: 11AM, WEDNESDAY, 19 NOVEMBER, MONTROSE BOWLING CLUB, WESTERN ROAD NORTH, MONTROSE

Ceramic art display in Montrose

Ceramic art work created by members of the Montrose Stroke Group went on display today (Wednesday).

The exhibition at Montrose Bowling Club has been made possible by ST/ART, an arts project for Stroke and Acquired Brain Injury participants across Tayside, which is run by Tayside Healthcare Arts Trust (THAT) in association with NHS Tayside.

Participants created a wide range of three dimensional art work such as mugs, vases, tiles and sculptures, using various techniques.

Lead artist Fran Marquis and volunteer artist John Burness have been working with the group over the past two months guiding participants to produce a collection of pieces that reflect their own personal interest, whilst also working with them as a group to design a mosaic. This mosaic will be installed in the bowling club where the group meet regularly.

Fran said, “The group were keen to have ceramics again this year and so we agreed that we would give them a similar programme but develop things further with the creation of the group plaque.

“The group have responded so well, making some great pieces and helping John and I work out a design for the final mosaic.”

The project is one of a range of art programmes for people with long term conditions currently being delivered by THAT, which promotes creative engagement to enhance participant’s health and wellbeing.

Chris Kelly, THAT Project Co-ordinator, said, “Fran’s last programme with the group was such a success that they were eager to have her back and develop their skills further. We see people’s confidence grow so quickly when they are engaged properly and creatively.”

Isabel Byers, the group’s treasurer, said, “We are very fortunate to be supported by the ST/ART Project and over the years we have had some great programmes. This one will be even more special because we will have something that belongs to the group and shows who we are and where we meet.”

Contact:

Debbie Huband

NHS Tayside Communications

(01382) 740134