Everybody has the ability to express themselves creatively. True. But not everybody can access the necessary tools and inspiration. Perhaps arts and crafts sessions are too expensive or require too much previous experience. Maybe an aspiring artist needs additional support. That’s where darts can help.

We believe in working with people with learning difficulties to help them realise their creative potential through guidance and inspiration from professional artists.

A project in which this belief is put into practice is Blank Canvas, a visual arts course that started in Autumn 2011 for people aged 19+ who have a learning disability and are interested in exploring their own creativity.

‘I’ve learnt how to make pictures’

Each week, participants have been working with a professional artist to try out new visual arts skills, make their own work and share it with others. Techniques that have been explored include printing, collage, creating sketch books and painting onto canvas.

‘Absolutely brilliant. If I wasn’t here I’d be stuck in the house and bored.’

Monday afternoons at The Point have been the setting for this weekly meeting of artistic minds. Staff involved in the project are currently exploring ways to continue the programme of work.

Individuals taking part have needed to able to interact with the sessions independently as well as to work in a group situation, but where extra support has been required carers have attended.

‘Oh wow! I’m glad I came now.’

This project has demonstrated that in addition to individuals with learning difficulties needing extra support to carry out everyday tasks, they benefit extensively from engaging in creative activity and developing their artistic skills.