South Tyneside homeless charity to exhibit work of 'remarkable artistic talent'
‘They already possess remarkable artistic talent.’
Residents of South Shields-based homelessness charity Emmaus North East will exhibit artwork created at workshops led by nationally-acclaimed portrait artist Leanne Pearce.
Leanne’s work has featured on ITV’s A Brush with Fame and Sky Arts’ Portrait Artist of the year. She gets to the hear of a subject with work she calls Portraits with Purpose.
The workshops provided residents, known by Emmaus as companions, with opportunities to explore art, share their ideas and build confidence in a friendly and supportive space, relieving some of the pressures people experience leading up to and during homelessness.
Companions worked together to create large pieces of artwork, adding their own ideas and colours to canvases to create collaborative pieces. The sessions encouraged team work and conversations.
Photographs by Leanne inspired companions to create self-portraits, drawing on ideas from the group’s work, giving each person the opportunity to explore their own style and create something personal.
Leanne said: “Working with the companions at Emmaus North East has been a truly rewarding experience. Everyone approached the workshops with enthusiasm, bringing creativity, openness and commitment to every task.
“I have also been deeply moved by the kindness, encouragement and support they showed one another throughout the process. The self-portraits they created are dynamic, honest and full of character.
“I hope this experience inspires them to continue drawing and painting, as they already possess remarkable artistic talent.”
“It was also a privilege to paint an oil portrait of each participant. These portraits will be exhibited alongside their self-portraits before being gifted to everyone as a lasting memento of the project.”
The workshops provided companions with a positive space to focus on their wellbeing. Taking part has encouraged social connection, boosted confidence and provided a sense of enjoyment and achievement.
Katy, a support worker at Emmaus, said: “It has been amazing to see companions grow in confidence and express themselves through art.
“The workshops have created a welcoming space where everyone can get involved, share their ideas and celebrate their creativity. Seeing the finished pieces come together has been a positive experience for everyone involved.”
Emmaus North East would like to thank Leanne and See Me North for making the workshops possible and for “supporting companions on their creative journey”.
Exhibition details are yet to be confirmed.