SAW’s Online Art Group is close to all our hearts and we are delighted to announce that thanks to new grant funding from Somerset Community Foundation, we look forward to sharing another year of exciting, online, artist-led workshops with you!

In 2020, in response to the pandemic, SAW developed an ‘At Home’ strand of our Quiet Places wellbeing project – bringing art activity online when we couldn’t meet in person. We discovered that whilst engaging online isn’t for everyone – for some people it really works and is hugely valued.

From the outset, we wanted to make sure we met people exactly where they were. Whatever level of ability, circumstances, schedule or access to materials, however people want to engage – we want to meet you there, providing truly accessible content for as many people as we can. So often small, but very real barriers prevent us from taking time to be creative, the Online Art Group aims to not only remove these, but replace them with opportunities to reconnect with ourselves through the act of making. 

“Active creativity has been the thread that has helped me navigate through some of the most challenging times of my life. Because of this, having the opportunity to become the custodian of this open and truly accessible space, and to together find inspiration and sanctuary through creativity, has genuinely become nothing short of a privilege and joy.” Emily Lewin, SAW Online Art Group Co-ordinator

With the new grant funding we will also be creating a short film to share with healthcare settings and through wellbeing networks, to spread the word and further extend the reach of the project. 

Somerset Community Foundation (SCF) is a grant-making charity that helps build strong communities where everyone can thrive. They do this by funding local charities and facilitating local giving.

images: group members and the lead artists

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Somerset Art Works – Online Art Group
Running throughout the year, first and third Wednesdays 6.30 – 7.30pm on Facebook Live. Plus recordings to revisit at any time via the Facebook group page – take part at a time that suits you.
For Somerset residents – free places available (donations welcome). New members welcome at any time.
Contact Emily for more information and bookings: admin@somersetartworks.org.uk
www.somersetartworks.org.uk

With thanks to funding support in 2025 from Somerset Community Foundation and Arts Council England