Renowned artist helps care home residents enjoy a grand finalé to their Big Draw involvement

An artist known for her striking charcoal drawings, often created on busy public transport journeys, has led an exclusive live online art class for residents in four of Care UK’s homes. 

Big Draw Ambassador, Liz Atkin, best known for her #CompulsiveCharcoal drawings, led the interactive, virtual session to celebrate the final stage of Care UK’s involvement in the annual Big Draw Festival. The class was held online to accommodate infection control measures and to ensure several homes could take part. 

Founded in 2000, The Big Draw is a pioneering charity dedicated to raising the profile of drawing as a tool for wellbeing, thought, creativity, social and cultural engagement. This is the third year Care UK has been a key partner of the charity. 

During the class, residents enjoyed a talk from Liz Atkin about how drawing helped her battle with anxiety, and how art can be used as a form of therapy to overcome emotional and physical barriers to health. 

After learning more about Liz’s charcoal drawing technique, residents had the opportunity to put their own art skills to the test by following along with a live demonstration. Not wanting to miss out on the fun, team members also rolled up their sleeves to try charcoal drawing -many for the first time. While some residents opted to create self-portraits, others drew their favourite place or memory, as encouraged by Liz.

Commenting on the event, Liz Atkin said: “I had a brilliant time joining residents for a morning full of drawing and creativity. It was wonderful to see so many residents following along and enjoying the relaxing benefits that art brings. There were some fantastic pieces of art created and I look forward to seeing the residents and their artwork again – hopefully in person!”

One of the homes to take part was Care UK’s Liberham Lodge in Surrey. Japal Singh, General Manager, said: “We were delighted to welcome Liz to Liberham Lodge – albeit virtually.  Liz’s art class was a fantastic opportunity to get creative and try something new, while learning more about the therapeutic benefits of art from Liz’s history.  

“Here at Liberham Lodge, we believe in the power of activity-based care. Art is a wonderful way for residents to express their feelings and showcase their artistic flare through an activity where anyone can take part – and there is no right or wrong way. We want to say a big thank you to Liz and our friends at The Big Draw for taking the time to host the session. The residents loved the class, and we look forward to planning the next one soon.” 

The other three Care UK homes where residents joined the live art session were Ridley Manor in High Wycombe, Kentford Manor near Newmarket and Ladybrook Manor in Stockport.

Care UK’s involvement in the Big Draw also produced an amazing walk-through virtual art gallery showing pieces created by residents. For further details of this and arty activities families can carry out with a loved one see here.