Angela, a regular at The Good Company People’s Art Club, has sold one of her beautiful floral paintings at a local art exhibition.
From acrylic to watercolour and landscapes to still life, or even if you have no previous experience, The Good Company People’s Art Club, hosted at the home and studio of local artist Gabriel Knollys, has something for everyone. Gabriel’s experience in teaching workshops makes her a fantastic and encouraging host for members, who can learn new skills or try new techniques to create something beautiful.
The Art Club epitomises The Good Company People’s mission: To support people in the local area to enjoy more independent, fulfilling lives for longer. The Good Company Clubs, which include The Tuesday Lunch Club and The Thursday Walking Club, are based on the latest scientific research to prevent cognitive decline and maintain physical and mental wellbeing. The Good Company People also support carers through tailored support and respite.
Attending an Art Club session at Gabriel’s home is like being welcomed into her family. Her four daughters often pop in for a chat whilst the dog roams the garden and studio, just to check up on our members progress!
Each session lasts five hours, giving a perfect opportunity to enjoy coffees and lunch on the patio. Gabriel is a fantastic cook and enjoys creating sharing dishes for our members. If you get your timing right, you may even be treated to her famous apple crumble made with apples from the garden.
Angela has been attending Art Club since last summer, “I was looking for activities to join in the local area and saw the advert in our little parish magazine. Since then it has become quite a feature in my life!”
A painting of a floral arrangement that Angela painted at Art Club recently sold at an ‘Art in June’ exhibition put on by local artist and Art Club host, Gabriel Knollys. Angels said, “I hadn't expected to do anything like sell a painting. I've certainly picked up some tips from Gabriel.”
The painting that sold, similar to the one shown on the right, was a watercolour of a floral arrangement. Gabriel said, “Angela loves painting flowers and experimenting with different techniques. This is a watercolour done from still life but she also likes to combine her brilliant drawing so sometimes starts with pen and ink before adding colour. Angela also likes creating texture using a palette knife and just enjoys experimenting.”
Angela attended art school when she was young, but Gabriel’s Art Club has reignited her passion, “It’s a lovely environment in which to do art, which is very important to me. When I was at art school, it wasn't a nice environment and it put me off. Although that was years and years ago I've struggled with it ever since. So doing art in a lovely environment makes it a pleasure.”
When asked how Art Club made her feel, Angela described it as, “invigorating! It takes one out of oneself and into an area which is creative and beneficial in all ways. I really miss it if I don't go. I haven't found anywhere else quite like it.”
Join Art Club
If you or someone you care for are interested in attending Art Club, get in touch with us! Thanks to funding from our partners, Care for the Carers, we have free taster sessions available.
Become an Art Club Volunteer
We are also looking for a volunteer to support Gabriel in hosting the Art Club each month. Volunteering would involve picking up one or two guests, driving them to the club, painting, helping prepare the food and eating with everyone… providing Good Company! Contact us at hello@thegoodcompanypeople.org