Creativity on show as adult learners exhibit work in Birkenhead Park
A collection of artwork created by adult learners is now on public display in Birkenhead, highlighting how creativity can boost confidence, combat isolation and support wellbeing.
An exhibition titled Imaginative Journeys to Wellbeing at Birkenhead Park Visitor Centre features a range of pieces created by learners who have taken part in courses delivered by Wirral Council’s Lifelong Learning Service.
Participants took part in creative sessions using a variety of techniques, including felting, silk painting, glass painting, batik, mixed media, watercolours and lino print.
A launch event was held to celebrate the exhibition, with learners and their family and friends invited to view the artwork.
The pieces will remain on display at Birkenhead Park Visitor Centre until Sunday 5 July, before moving to the Mallory Building in Birkenhead town centre.
It’s been a real privilege to support learners as they grow in confidence and feel good about what they’re creating.
Throughout the course, I’ve seen people develop new artistic skills, try a range of techniques, and become more confident in sharing their ideas and artwork.
It’s also been really positive to see friendships form within the group, with learners supporting and encouraging one another.
The sessions have helped people connect, enjoy time out for themselves, and experience the wellbeing benefits of being creative.
The art classes attracted people from a variety of backgrounds, including members of Men Too – a Birkenhead-based charity supporting men’s mental health and wellbeing.
Anthony Wood, Project Support Co-ordinator at Men Too, believes those who attended sessions benefited significantly.
The feedback I’ve received and seeing how much it has meant to the men to have their artwork on display, has been amazing. There is a real sense of purpose.
They’ve been learning lots of new techniques, and it has also helped with issues such as social isolation and low self-esteem.
For some people, art is a way of expressing how they feel when they’re not comfortable opening up verbally. Being creative while talking openly and honestly has been incredibly powerful, and everyone involved has really enjoyed it.
The amazing work on display highlights the quality of teaching that our Lifelong Learning Service courses offer and the talent and creativity in our learners.
This exhibition shows it is never too late to learn new skills and techniques. If there's something you've always wanted to do, have a look online at the wide range of courses we have available.
Are you interested in signing up to a Wirral Lifelong Learning Service course?
The curriculum on offer includes;
- Family Learning such as supporting a child’s learning and phonics
- Essential skills, such as English, Maths, EDS
- Practical and creative skills such as art and floristry
- Skills for volunteering and employment
- Plus many more courses. Click here a full list.
English, maths, English for speakers of other languages, family learning and essential digital skills courses are free for everyone.
All other courses are free for adults over 19, living in Wirral and earning under £35864.40 or in receipt of benefits.
Visit the Wirral Lifelong Learners website, email lifelonglearning@wirral.gov.uk or scan the QR code on Wirral Council’s website to go find the course website.
