Out Patients
Participating in therapeutic art and creativity whilst receiving palliative care can be a powerful tool in addressing and communicating the physical and emotional battles faced by the person living with an illness. On average half a million people die in England every year, and most deaths are preceded by a period living with chronic illness. It’s vital for our wellbeing that we’re able to talk about and process this natural part of our lives. But, even though we will all die, there is still great taboo around talking about it. Cathartic aims to enhance quality of life and we strive to positively influence the course of the illness. Workshops are designed to affirm life and create treasured memories for all involved. Art has many extensive therapeutic values. The most obvious being that creating art can offer another channel of communication, exploring deep or hidden emotions, where words may be too hard to find. Looking at art can be a sensitive catalyst for starting difficult and painful discussions. When people create artwork, it can offer a cherished and lasting legacy for loved ones left behind. Creative Health report: “During terminal illness, arts participation provides an antidote to physical and psychological pain.”
Some of those who have terminal illness may feel that they have lost control over a lot of aspects of their lives, and to be given a chance to speak out, make choices, express their feelings, and regain some control, is very empowering.
“I can’t express how much I look forward to coming to your art studio and inspiring art sessions. In all my nursing career and work helping struggling adults cope, none have matchedthe atmosphere I immediatelyfelt when I started in the first class with you both. I found myself struggling after losing my husband and developing breast cancer. I walked into a loving, professional scene, a beautifully set up studio. The décor is amazing, full of fantasy images, various decor all around: hand painted images on chairs and walls – it'slike walking into another world, pure fun and so inspirational. I switch off totally and find your art sessions really therapeutic and creative. I love the way I leave, feeling I am creative – I amable to trydrawing and painting art techniquesas they use clever and various waysto make us happily express ourselves and forget our struggles. I’m truly amazedhow much I love Nicky and Maria who have given me so much confidence and the abilityto cope with my challenges so much better. I have learned that there are different ways, within our reach, to create beautiful masterpiecesandIhave been proud to make them. Nothing is too much trouble to help us as a group, and individually, to achieve this. I have never met such skilful, professional, marvellousall round gifted hard workers as yourselves. I can’tthank you enough for being there, with your energy and drive, helping us in so many ways. I am so privileged to feel part of all this.”