Art has long been recognised as a powerful tool for wellbeing, with creative activities helping you slow down, express emotions, reduce stress and find moments of calm in everyday life.

This autumn, adults across Barnsley and Penistone can experience those benefits for themselves through a series of free therapeutic art sessions run by non-profit organisation, Art for Wellness.

Designed for adults experiencing isolation, loneliness, neurodivergence, anxiety, low mood or other mental health challenges, the friendly midweek morning sessions provide a welcoming space to explore creativity, connect with others and enjoy time away from daily pressures.

Participants will be guided through different activities including painting, mixed media, collage, nature-inspired art, art journaling and mindful mark making, all aimed at encouraging relaxation, self-expression and reflection. No artistic experience is needed – the focus is on the process rather than the finished piece.

The sessions are led by Art for Wellness’s founder, Debbie Crouch, who understands first-hand the therapeutic value of creativity. After experiencing a nervous breakdown, she returned to art as part of her own recovery journey and found that creative practice became an important source of healing, confidence and wellbeing.

“Art doesn’t have to be about producing something perfect,” she says. “It can be a way to process feelings, be present in the moment and reconnect with yourself and the world around you.”

Funded by the South Yorkshire Health and Growth Acceleration Programme and The National Lottery Community Fund, places are free but limited to around 12 participants per session, helping to create a supportive and inclusive atmosphere.

For anyone looking to boost their wellbeing, meet new people or simply enjoy the restorative benefits of creativity, these sessions offer a gentle and welcoming place to start.

Upcoming dates:

Therapeutic Art – all sessions 10:15am-12:15pm

Alternate Mondays at St John’s Community Centre, Penistone S36 6AR – 21^st September, 5^th October, 19^th October, 9^th November

Selected Thursdays at Tesco Stairfoot, Barnsley S70 3NS – 17^th September, 15^th October, 2^nd October, 5^th November

Wellness on Wednesdays

Fortnightly sessions at St John’s Community Centre, Penistone S36 6AR

23^rd September, 7^th October, 21^st October, 4^th November – 10am-12pm

Look Around the Garden

Monthly session at Wortley Hall, Wortley S35 7DB

Tuesdays 15^th September, 13^th October, 10^th November – 10am-12pm

Halloween Family Fun Craft Day

Wednesday 28^th October 10am-12pm, St John’s Community Centre, Pensitone S36 6AR

Suitable for children aged 8+ but must be accompanied by an adult

Places are free but must be booked in advance via Eventbrite. Find out more at www.artforwellnesscic.co.uk