Giving back to the community with art
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Looking after our tenants’ homes and liaising with support providers is all part of the day job for our RWP Housing Officer Helen, but when she’s not working, her passion is painting. She is currently exhibiting her artwork for the Chelmsford Festival in Essex, which runs from 12 June until 9 July.
Helen discovered her love of art and her talent when she was at school, and she gained qualifications in the subject. After she left school, however, she didn’t pursue it further and it remained a hidden talent.
It wasn’t until 2018 after a long spell off work, that Helen decided to pick up a paintbrush again. “I found it therapeutic and realised how much I loved it,” she says.
As Helen gained confidence, she saw the advert calling for artists to submit their work for the festival. “I’ve never shown my art in public before, only to family and close friends! My family helped me choose which pieces to submit. I didn’t know if I would get accepted, I couldn’t believe it when I received an email to say I was successful.”
Chelmsford Festival is all about getting the community together. There are a lot of activities that appeal to people of all ages to get them involved including music, science and the Chelmsford Carnival Finale.
The art show is utilising an empty shop in the Meadows shopping centre and the art is for sale with 10 per cent of proceeds going towards funding next year’s festival. The event is sponsored by Chelmsford City Council and the Arts Council to name a few.
“The event is advertised on social media throughout Essex and art purchases are made in person, this encourages residents to get involved in other activities and be a part of the community,” explains Helen. “It’s great to be involved in the community and hopefully with any sales of my work, I’ll be able to give something back.”
Helen likes to use acrylics to paint animals and flowers, and has tried her hand at portraiture. She paints on cradled hardboard or wood, so there is no need for a frame. “I find painting is a great stress reliever and a good way to relax. I would encourage everyone to have a go, especially our tenants.”
Helen is volunteering on a Tuesday morning to help run the exhibition. What’s more, she has had an opportunity to connect with other artists. “I have met other local artists and the Chelmsford Arts Society invited me to become a member; a huge achievement that boosted my confidence to continue to exhibit my art. The membership will allow me to exhibit in other art shows, build up my network and have more exposure.”
Take a look at Helen's artwork:
