The Barrel Boulangerie on Wanstead High Street is now displaying a wide range of paintings by local adult students. Yet, art can do even more than create beautiful surroundings. Donna Mizzi reports
Consciously and unconsciously, a growing number of adults are taking up local art classes to achieve a greater sense of wellbeing. That’s the clear observation made by watercolourist Brenda Coyle, who teaches art classes at Wanstead House community centre.
Pursuing art has proven health benefits, as recently publicised, as well as stimulating creativity. Brenda has long focused on “relaxation through art” – whether it’s running classes within the learning departments of London museums, royal palaces, corporate workplaces and now in her home area of Wanstead. She decided to approach Zak, manager of the popular Barrel Boulangerie, about displaying her students’ work, and was delighted he agreed, seeing the mutual benefit: encouraging creativity and providing visual interest for customers (as well as the opportunity to buy local artists’ work). It may also encourage customers to join local art classes.
Brenda’s art classes at Wanstead House start with gentle meditative techniques that help students to relax after a busy morning or rushing to class. For many, the connection between restfulness and the ability to paint is a fascinating revelation. She explains: “It is important for people to take a breath between one activity and another so they are mentally ready to fully enjoy the session ahead. I fully believe the power of creativity can make us feel good as it releases dopamine, a chemical that facilitates feelings of pleasure and happiness. This can serve as a valuable tool for reducing anxiety and depression, and allows us to become fully absorbed, providing an opportunity to experience a sense of ‘free flow’ – a feeling of being completely wrapped in an activity we enjoy. Joining a class is an opportunity to be with like-minded people, to make new friends and new connections within our community.”
This tutor’s students will also display their work alongside members of Art Group Wanstead at the Wanstead Festival on 14 September. And Brenda will be offering free one-to-one ‘Painting for the Petrified’ art sessions at the festival.
The Barrel Boulangerie is located at 151 Wanstead High Street.
For more information, call 07745 334 261 or email mbbcraft@gmail.com
For details of all other classes at Wanstead House, call 020 8989 3693
