Free Art Classes for over 50s

As part of a countywide initiative, free art classes for people who are 50 and over are running every Wednesday afternoon at the Ockment Centre in Okehampton. 

The project, funded by ‘Drink Wise Age Well Devon’, runs free four-week taster courses in art and craft techniques. The first few sessions are tutor lead, followed by two sessions where participants can explore in their own way.  Recent sessions have included techniques such as mixed media painting, feltmaking, wire and modroc sculpture, expressive drawing and block and lino printing.  Gill or Andy Cairns of West Devon Art Workshops run the courses and both are experienced further education teachers.

No experience or special materials are required as all materials are provided for free, plus tea and coffee are available.  Those joining the classes are just encouraged to bring plenty of enthusiasm and a sense of humour!

Gill explains that the classes are really friendly and enjoyable and a great place to meet new people whilst learning a new hobby.  Andy suggests that developing your artistic side is a great way to reward yourself for a lifetime of work. Most people taking part are beginners, but very quickly pick up the techniques and grow in confidence.  Alongside the art classes there are also other activities for participants to take part in - for example an exhibition in Tavistock Town Hall in January and trips to art galleries.  (Last September the course ran a free coach trip to the Tate Modern in London to see the new layout and the Georgia O’ Keeffe exhibition.)

‘Drink Wise Age Well Devon’ are funding this course as part of a project to help people over 50 cope with life changes - through learning new skills and making new friends. There are also other classes and activities on offer to promote health and well-being.  To find out more, visit drinkwiseagewell.org.uk’. 

The classes in Okehampton are run at the Ockment Centre on Wednesday afternoons, from 2.15pm to 5.15pm.  Full details and how to book can be found on the West Devon Art Workshops website: www.westdevonartworkshops.co.uk or by phoning 07724 153381. Booking is essential as spaces are limited.