Artist
In some cases the art came from a group effort by members of the
congregation. When there were time constraints, I provided the design with materials
and the group enjoyed the activity. When we had more time, I was able to provide
only a basic idea and we explored the art together. In either case my thanks go to
my fellow artists in the church for their contribution to this display.
I would also like to thank the clergy for encouraging me to pursue my interest in communicating non-verbally - for allowing my cryptic and often puzzling pieces of artwork to be displayed without a title!
Usually one or two pictures appear at the appropriate liturgical seasons but the content is not always obvious! I resist giving a piece a title too soon as it seems to fix a meaning prematurely on very complex subject matter. For this exhibition, to make it more user-friendly I have given more information than usual but I am also available and happy to answer questions.
Art Therapist
My early exploration of art in the church led me to working with children in
Newtown. During this work I discovered the power of art to heal, and retrained to
become an Art Therapist. I qualified for a Post Graduate in Art Therapy at the
University of Hertfordshire in 2000 and now work as a State Registered Art Therapist.
Most of my work is in three Reading mainstream schools with children who
have a range of problems. I also run a weekly art therapy group for the elderly
suffering with dementia in a residential home, and recently completed a series
of weekly art therapy groups for patients in a hospice.
PS. I have also illustrated a number of books, one of which is available for sale
on the Traidcraft Stall and I can warmly recommend it - ‘Just a Minute’ written
by Chris Orme, a member of this church.
S J Batchelor
Reading, Berks. UK