Free art workshops for people living with movement disorders are being held thanks to the support of the Arts Council National Lottery Project Grants.

The series of sculptural workshops – called ‘Dystonic forms’ – will be held in St Martins by artist and qualified art teacher, Carole Thorpe-Gunner, who herself lives with a condition called Dystonia.

The workshops are aimed at bringing art to local communities – no experience or background knowledge is required.

Workshop leader Carole, originally from Yorkshire but has lived near Shrewsbury for the past eighteen years, said: “I’m thrilled to be hosting these workshops where people living with movement disorders across Shropshire will have the opportunity to express themselves creatively in a supportive and welcoming environment.

“I was diagnosed with a condition called Dystonia in 2005, a neurological movement disorder in which faulty signals from the brain cause muscles to spasm and pull on the body incorrectly.

“The condition changed mine and my family’s life, as well as my experience of art and expression dramatically. Creating art became difficult for me, physically and mentally. I know there will be many people like me across Shropshire, living with movement disorders such as Dystonia, Parkinson’s, MS and Tremors, among others, who would greatly benefit from these workshops. Together, we will explore various forms of light-weight sculpture, to create something we’re all proud of. All are welcome to attend, no experience is required!”

Workshops will be taking place throughout February and March at St Martins Community Centre, near Oswestry on the below dates and times:

  • Friday 14th February 12-2pm.
  • Saturday 22nd February, 12pm –2pm
  • Saturday 7th March, 12pm –2pm

Carole added: “We’re extremely grateful to Arts Council National Lottery Project Grants, who have provided us with the support to make these events possible. I hope you can join us!”

Refreshments including cakes, teas and coffees will be provided, free of charge. Parking is free on-site

No experience of art-making is required. No booking is required but please contact Carole for more information on: ctg.55@hotmail.com or visit the Facebook page @DystonicForms

Pictured: Carole Thorpe-Gunner