From April to July 2025, Arts in Health enjoyed a rich 12-week partnership with Two Temple Place, a beautiful grade II listed Neo-Tudor building on the Embankment. After visiting the opening exhibition Lives Less Ordinary: Working-Class Britain Re-seen, the group settled into a weekly studio space led by artist educators from their Learning team.
The programme unfolded across three themes:
Identity & Storytelling
Introductions to the Two Temple Place artist educators and a relaxed studio atmosphere helped set the tone for open, creative making. Participants reflected on the ‘leisure time’ theme in the exhibition through collage and photography, responding to how everyday stories and identities were represented by exhibited artists.
Crafts, Places & Spaces
Inspired by the building’s ornate design and hidden wooden carvings of animals dotted across various locations, the group took part in designing ceramic tiles, mindful bird-drawing sessions, and craft-based responses. Clay became a favouritemedium, with several participants choosing to return to their pieces across the weeks.
Wellbeing & Creativity
The final sessions focused on creativity as a tool for wellbeing, including a playful photography workshop with handmade props. Participants continued developing earlier drawings or clay pieces, or explored new mixed-media approaches, all at their own pace.
Over the term, the group developed new skills, connected with others, and created a wide range of artworks. Many participants shared how supported they felt, how enjoyable the sessions were, and felt encouraged to explore cultural spaces beyond the project. We are so grateful to Two Temple Place and the Bulldog Trust for this wonderful opportunity and can’t wait to return.
If you are interested in hearing more about the work of Arts in Health, please do not hesitate to contact our team. You can email us on cnwlartsinhealth@nhs.net or visit our website.
