Flowerfield Arts Centre launches new online exhibition by the Pavestone Collective
Tue, August 11, 2020
Flowerfield Arts Centre is delighted to present its new virtual exhibition, ‘Isolation in Lockdown’, by Coleraine-based community group, the Pavestone Collective.
Despite the restrictions and change to their daily lives, the Collective members were determined to continue their passion for visual arts and create a new body of work reflecting on COVID-19 and their own experiences. Many of the group live with physical health issues, and have been self-isolating since March to protect themselves from the dangers of coronavirus.
The resulting artwork made during this time is an eclectic mix of traditional, contemporary, impressionistic and mixed-media pieces with subject matter from everyday life to still life and landscapes. Each artist has developed their own style and used visual art to express their innermost thoughts and feelings. Participating in creative activity has had a positive effect on their health and well-being and has helped to reduce the anxiety associated with the pandemic.
The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council Alderman Mark Fielding said: “The Pavestone Collective should be very proud of their recent work. Despite the challenges of the past number of months, members have used their time in a positive and productive way which is evident through this new online exhibition. Well done to everyone who has made this possible.”
Desima Connolly, Arts Service Development Manager, added: “We have supported the wonderful Pavestone Collective over the years and had initiated an exhibition of the collective’s work to be shown at both Flowerfield and Roe Valley Arts Centres. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19, the Pavestone exhibition was one of many exhibitions we had to postpone and reschedule until our venues reopen. In the meantime, we are delighted to support the group with this virtual exhibition and greatly look forward to working with and further supporting them through various initiatives.”
Formed in 2011, the Pavestone Collective normally meet weekly and explore various creative methods from ceramics to woodwork and painting. Members, all of whom have physical or mental health conditions, develop their skills, build confidence and most importantly, socialise with each other to share good practice.
The exhibition can be viewed online at www.flowerfield.org and is part of the Arts Service’s new initiative ArtLine which promotes the therapeutic and well-being values of getting creative.
