Stockport care home welcomes local artist

A care home in Stockport has welcomed a very special guest to celebrate National Day of Arts in Care Homes. 

Care UK’s Ladybrook Manor on Dairyground Road in Bramhall, opened its doors to local artist Champ for a day of creativity.

Residents enjoyed listening to Champ, whose work is displayed in Portugal and Japan, as he shared his journey and experiences. 

In the afternoon, residents had a chance to get their creative juices flowing during a "Create Like the Masters" session, where they visited different artist-themed stations and produced their own artwork inspired by famous artists, including Van Gogh, Picasso and Matisse.

Activities included painting colourful sunflowers, creating water lilies using sponges and cutting and arranging vibrant paper shapes to create unique masterpieces.

Resident Edward said: “I really enjoyed listening to Champ talk about his artwork and what inspires him. It was fascinating to hear about his creative journey.

“Afterwards, I had a go at creating my own Van Gogh-inspired painting. I loved working with the colours and seeing the picture come together. Art gives me the chance to express myself, helps me feel calm and relaxed, and I always feel proud of what I've achieved when I've finished.”

To round off the day, the care home team hosted an afternoon tea and awards presentation with certificates presented to residents in recognition of their creativity.

Susan Cameron, Home Manager at Ladybrook Manor, said: “We always love to get creative here at Ladybrook Manor and we wanted to do something extra special to mark National Day of Arts in Care Homes, so we were so excited when Champ agreed to join us. Residents had a blast listening to him talk about his work and going off to create their own masterpieces.

“Art has plenty of therapeutic benefits for older people, increasing social interaction, promoting creativity and relaxation. Activities like this also encourage residents to reminisce and share memories from their younger days as they reflect on being creative.

“I’d like to extend a huge thanks to Champ for an inspiring session. We’re already looking forward to planning our next creative activity.”

Ladybrook Manor provides full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. The home has its own couple suites, café and hair and beauty salon, while the building is configured into a series of neighbourhoods to facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among the residents.