'Smiles' appear around Exeter

Wellbeing community art project

Hand-crocheted 'smiles' have been appeared around Exeter.

It's part of a project called the Makers' Group by an arts charity called Organic Arts to improve mental wellbeing during lockdown.

They say that at a time when support networks are cut short and coping strategies might not be possible, mental health is suffering.  Spreading smiles across the city as an antidote to their anxiety. 

Uually set at West Town Farm, just outside Exeter, the project has been taken online since the pandemic, with people making art from home, such as creative writing, pigment making, drawing, painting, printing and nature installations.

They want to encourage Exeter residents to pick up a crochet hook and get crafting. 

“The Makers Group was set up to bring people together, teach skills and build the confidence in our members. The long-term aim is to make, market and sell the work created too”, says Summer, Makers' Group’s co-ordinator.

“We want to spread a smile to lift the spirits and change perspective of passers-by in and around Exeter. It’s one of the few things that we can all do at the moment, so join us in spreading a smile!”

More information at: www.organicarts.org.uk.