Residents at Nant y Môr, Wales & West Housing Association’s Extra Care Scheme on Marine Drive, Prestatyn, have been showcasing their talents at an Art Exhibition held at the scheme. The exhibition, which was open for viewings for 10 days this April, was officially opened by the Mayor of Prestatyn, Councillor Alan Pennington.
The exhibits, which included canvas paintings, 3D art, textiles and creative writing pieces, were produced by residents during a fifteen week ‘Creative Memories’ project run by Oriel Scala Artists’ Co-operative members and sponsored by the Arts Council of Wales and Denbighshire County Council.
June Foster, a resident who thoroughly enjoyed the project and attended all the art workshops, said “It was really amazing and we looked forward to each session. We have never done anything like this before with canvasses and acrylic paints. We created a ‘memory box’ which I found was a nice experience as it allowed me to go back to my childhood days. It was really nice and different and something created by us.”
Jan Morris, a resident at Nant y Môr, added “ I wish we could have more of it, I just love it to bits. Drawing on canvas can be rather nerve-racking, but I just love the creative and painting side of it all.”
“It was nice that we were appreciated by the local dignitaries and by Wales & West Housing. I think everyone was surprised by the hidden talents here at Nant y Môr. I really enjoyed the company, the encouragement and inspiration from the artists and other residents to use our talents” said Mrs Brenda Simpson.
Nant y Mor, which was officially opened in November last year by the First Minister, Carwyn Jones AM, has already enjoyed success and widespread recognition for their residents’ choir and the residents are now looking forward to using their creative talents on further projects over the coming months.