Llanidloes Explorer Scouts were the recipient of a PAVO Youth Led Grant in 2019/20. They had been approached by Llanidloes Hospital to make some artwork for the hospital, to create a talking point for patients, some of whom are living with dementia. The group had previously volunteered to help the hospital with dementia boxes and with digging a sensory garden for patients. Scout member Will Stead applied to PAVO for a grant to pay for materials for the art project, as well as the time of a local artist, Cathy Knapp, to help them realise their ideas.
Here Will describes what members of the group have gained from their project.
“Using Cathy Knapp as an artist and expert to lead us through was invaluable. Her expertise nudged us in the right direction. She enabled the project to flow, guiding us but also valuing our inputs. This project has given us all an insight into the creative process of working in clay. We have been encouraged from day one to explore and try ideas or our own. However we have also been nudged in the right direction, and built our expertise by taking advice and learning from others.
We have built our confidence in talking to professionals: the nurses at the hospital, artist Cathy Knapp, and working alongside group leaders on the shared project.
We do still need to install our artwork. Due to coronavirus, this may be delayed as access to hospital is currently under question. We need to work alongside the hospital caretaker to see that all parties are happy with how the work is installed.
We are all proud of what we have achieved and feel we have contributed to our older population in Llanidloes, by considering the needs of dementia patients. We look forward to the longevity of our art installation, and in hoping it brings enjoyment for years to come.”
Some of the other Scouts said:
"I enjoyed the brain storming with everyone and sketching ideas, also modelling the clay"
"I learned how to facilitate my brain to think in a more creative way"
"It has been fantastic to see so many ideas come together to create a such beautiful piece of work, which I am very proud to be apart of."
