Dan, Creating History lead, talks about this fantastic group
Creating History runs as part of West Kent Mind ‘Creative Minds’ programme (funded by the National Lottery Community Fund)
Can you tell us what the Creating History group is?
The Creating History group is a 6 month programme run at The Amelia Scott, the Museum, library and council services building in Tunbridge Wells.
We use objects from the museum collection, many of which are not normally on display to engage members in looking at and talking about historical objects, as well as giving people the opportunity to make arts and crafts based on those objects.
What sessions have you run so far and what have these sessions involved?
Ah, good question! So many it is hard to remember, but we have looked at paintings, fans, costume and photographs. We also regularly go into the museum to look at things that are related to the object we have in the group.
How does the service support good mental health and wellbeing?
Art is well known to help people’s mental health and wellbeing, so this is a big part of what we do, but we also use a technique called ‘mindful looking’. Mindful looking is a mindful technique which uses the sense of sight to help you be in the moment. As a group we spend time looking at our objects and then have a discussion about what we liked, what we didn’t, the composition of paintings, or the historical period of objects. These discussions are great for promoting wellbeing as they allow people to express their ideas in a very supportive setting.
Can anyone attend the group?
Yes, anyone over 18 who feels they would benefit their mental health through attending, although we are full at the moment, which is both a shame and great!
What’s your favourite thing about working with this group?
It is without doubt the discussions that develop both around the objects and the table. It is so fulfilling to see people develop their confidence and knowledge by using some of the fascinating objects we have in the museum collection.
