This is your Creativity Calling. 

If your creative self feels as hard to access as a dried-up watercolour set, this is for you.

We are delighted to introduce you to an ESNEFT staff-specific series of mind-opening Art Classes by Samantha Barnes, her husband Carl (and probably Barney, the dog too). Commissioned by Colchester and Ipswich Hospital Charity in partnership with the Wellbeing Hub, these online art sessions have been made to reintroduce, reignite and remind you that art is an open option for everyone.

Art brings both joy and much-needed stress-reducing downtime. You need NO existing art skills to join in - just a willingness to have a go. Each class is suitable for all levels, from super-beginners to advanced artists. Sam’s NHS Art Programme is called Artfully Minded and here are a series of four filmed art classes which you can access anytime that suits you. You can work along to them alone, with family members, or flatmates - everyone is invited, because everyone benefits.

You need no special art materials other than basic pencil, paper and any old colouring tools you already have at home - or can borrow.

Together the classes will take you through fun, enlightening drawing exercises (that Sam uses every day in her studio for her own work), then follow on into gentle watercolour painting. By working through each exercise, you will gain confidence in your creativity faster than you imagine possible.

Making art brings beautiful downtime. These guided art sessions are here to stimulate relaxation, introduce new ideas, make connections and most importantly, thoroughly enjoy.