Clifton Arts & Craft 50+ Group has been running for over 15 years old. It was originally set up as an initiative to support the wellbeing of adults aged 50+ through art activities. An art tutor was funded for the first year, to support the group; at the end of that year, participants were encouraged to set up as a constituted group that could apply for funding opportunities and run itself. Members have been meeting weekly (the pandemic aside) ever since.
“Every now and then we get together and figure out what sorts of arts and crafts we want to try next. We draw on the skills of all our members and we teach each other new techniques. It might be watercolours, card-making or sewing – it changes all the time and we decide what projects we’re going to work on together. You definitely don’t need to be good at art to join in – materials are provided and you’ll be talked through each stage of a new project. At the end you’ll have made something really lovely.”
Members include both men and women. All current members live in Salford – but you don’t need to live locally. Everyone aged over 50 years is welcome to join. Subs of £3 per week cover the purchase of materials, room hire and tea/coffee. Clifton Community Centre has disabled access and toilets. And it’s a light and airy room – which is great for being creative.
‘Many of our members call our meetings the most important time of their week. We are older people – some of us have a lot going on in our lives, others are a bit isolated. Some of us have recently been bereaved – and it’s easy to stay in and get lonely. Whatever’s going on in our lives, we all get something out of being together and being creative. Our meetings get you out the house and doing something interesting – that takes you away from your own thoughts for a bit.’
Clifton Arts & Crafts 50+ Group meets every Wednesday morning at Clifton Community Centre on Wynne Avenue from 10am to 12 noon. Each session is £3 subs. Please contact Connie on 07711 282 351 to arrange a visit.
You’ll find other self-led art groups at other Community Centres across Salford – check out the timetables.
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