The Making Matters exhibition
Our Newquay art group recently had the incredible opportunity to work with Red Peters, a Lostwithiel based artist dedicated to promoting the transformative power of art in our communities. Red’s mission is to inspire people to “connect, create, and celebrate,” and she kindly invited us to join her in the Making Matters community project in Lostwithiel.
The artworks crafted by our group were proudly displayed in St. Bartholomew’s Church during Mental Health Awareness Week, showcasing the creativity and talent of our clients. Everyone involved learned new skills and experimented with various techniques and mediums, making the experience truly exhilarating! The group’s chosen words were joy and belonging, which they based their artwork upon.
A Lostwithiel sculpture was also created in collaboration with ten local community groups, while the Making Matters exhibition at St. Bartholomew’s was developed in partnership with Cornwall Mind to celebrate the profound impact that creativity has on our wellbeing.
Participants worked together to identify how being a member of the art group supports their wellbeing. The resulting exhibition and sculpture are a testament to the invaluable sense of belonging, safety, support and purpose that groups provide.
Making Matters is passionate about the power of creativity. Research suggests that arts and creative group activities may help with mental health problems, they can boost self-esteem, help express thoughts and feelings, and provide social interaction. Being creative can provide a welcome distraction from life’s stresses, helping to reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Posted on: 2nd June 2025