Lorraine Tapper reports on the portraits that helped people get back on their feet after Covid

An eight-week E7 portrait project was delivered at The Gate Library recently with funding from the Westfield East Bank Creative Futures Fund and the Foundation for Future London and some of the best pictures are on display during July.

Amateur artists over 50 had the opportunity to hone their skills while painting unsung heroes who made a contribution to the Forest Gate community during the pandemic. The aim of the project was to boost Covid recovery in the community by tapping into the therapeutic benefits of art.

Some of the contributions to the Forest Gate community, all on a voluntary basis included tackling loneliness, reducing social isolation, organising a charity food stall at Woodgrange Market and delivering food parcels for people during lockdown.

Each week an inspirational sitter was interviewed by an artist from the class so that the artists could develop a deeper understanding of their subject. Each Interview is written and displayed alongside the paintings.

The art classes also provided an opportunity for people to develop friendships, try new techniques which they integrated into their work, and it made a significant difference to good mental health.

The class has selected some of their favourite pieces which are displayed in the gallery for three weeks in July.

The Gate Library, 2-6 Woodgrange Road, London E17 0QH. Opening Event: 7 July, 5.30pm to 7.30pm. Exhibition: 8 – 28 July

Tutor: eleanorpearcefineart@gmail.com

www.eleanorpearce.co.uk

Instagram: @eleanorpearce

Twitter: @eleanorpearce

You can watch a video about the class.

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