Lisa Stewart

I am a therapeutic arts facilitator for

adult learners with a variety of

additional needs, challenging behaviours

and mental health issues. The courses are ongoing and run at Cornwall College, outreach day centres and hospital settings for adults with enduring and often severe mental health issues.

 

The aim is to deliver ideas that not only stretch and challenge but most importantly encourage learners to explore and develop their own creativity. With nearly 20 years in post I have a wealth of experience which has enabled me to design courses and methodologies using my skills to pitch course content to the multifaceted needs of students. The courses seek to address not only emotional well-being , also the differentiation of diverse cognitive abilities and the various often complex physical and mental health issues faced by learners.

 

What is key, is to deliver instructions, demonstrate methodologies and techniques in a manner that will not exacerbate students' often fragile mental states. The importance of having a relaxed and stress free environment, minimum paperwork and a safe space, is crucial  to be able to encourage self confidence and deliver course content.

 

I never cease to be amazed by the talent of my students and it is my plan to showcase examples of their work once I have received their express permission. 

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My Art Practice

Throughout my life I have maintained an eclectic art practice, much of it self-taught. I studied studio ceramics as a mature student but my continuous investigations and creative processes lead me ever forward in new directions.If I had to find a single word to sum up my practice I think it would probably be 'Uncanny'.

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