Our spring art exhibition entitled ‘Change’ was a huge success attracting 57 visitors over two days.
The Deputy Mayor of Reading, Deborah Edwards (pictured above, who’s also a Launchpad trustee) welcomed everybody to the exhibition at Launchpad 135, our work and life skills centre, and gave a short speech praising the creativity on display.
Members of the art group showed a real sense of pride in showing visitors around the centre and talking about their artwork.
Whether there is a change in the weather, the seasons, flora and fauna or your mindset, ‘Change’ saw the art group do what they do best and explore their own ideas and methods of working with vigour and fun.
Visitors saw an array of different styles and voices. No two people are the same. The art group is an inclusive environment that encourages a relaxed and friendly approach to being creative.
What was on show was the culmination of this process exploring 16mm film, cyanotypes, printmaking, collage and painting, amongst other things including stone carving, under the tutelage of Andrew Hood, and work with the Rabble Theatre Company.
This exhibition also saw the inclusion of the famous rock paintings that have been created at 135 and overseen by volunteer Richard.
Sharon Mullis, Life Skills and Volunteer Projects Manager, said: “It is wonderful to open our doors to our friends and the general public and show off the brilliant art.
“Members get so much out of this. It gives them an opportunity to talk about their work with a variety of different people, which in turns builds confidence and self-esteem.
“Phil, the art tutor, is fantastic at getting the creative juices flowing and our members, who may have experienced trauma in the past, are able to lose themselves in their creativity.”
Here are some comments from visitors:
“So good to come and see this place (135) and all that goes on here! Very impressed by the artwork in particular and the theatre projects are brilliant. On top of all that, you were all so welcoming.”
“Very interesting exhibition – a lot of talent on display! Also fascinating to see what Launch pad has to offer and to hear how important it is to everybody. Thanks to everyone who showed us around.”
“Very interesting – lovely to see people, had such fun. Also really impressed with all the other activities and training going on here. A great initiative.”
“Really good to see everybody’s artwork and the sense of community from it. Very well done.”
“Wonderful work, fantastically displayed and great guides.”