How back injury has led Anne to art
THIS week, Anne Snaith from Anglesey explains how a back injury resulted in her becoming involved in community art.
Anne originally trained in Art and Design at Manchester Metropolitan University in the early 1980s.
Her degree course involved designing educational material for museums and schools using graphics, illustration and film.
It wasn’t until Anne had her own family that her art became more personal, and she got involved with an exhibition for the Arthritis Research Council. This led to various commissions and sales through a local gallery.
Anne goes on to say: “I seriously hurt my back in 1994, soon after the birth of my daughter. This caused me severe pain.
“A friend took me to a Silk and Threads Class nearby and watching the artist apply dye to the fabric and adding salt I was captivated.
“The fantastic effects seemed magical and I loved the vibrant colours, it was entirely different to my formal art training and the seed was sown for a new direction.
“I learnt many different techniques including Shibori Scarf dyeing, batik, stencilling and many more.
“I wanted to use my new joy of painting for others and became involved with various community art projects in South Manchester where we lived.
“Following my miraculous recovery and subsequent move to Anglesey in 2010, I was determined to open a Gallery space where I could continue my passion for community art.
H’ Artworks was born in April 2011 when I opened a gallery space in the Forum, located at 6 Church Street, Beaumaris. I have been privileged to work with an amazing crosssection of people ranging from excluded teenagers, young carers and the bereaved.
“My greatest joy has been enabling others to discover their own potential and their creative voice.
“I also teach and demonstrate painting to various other groups such as WI and most recently had a wonderful day with a group of ladies celebrating a significant birthday.”
Anne has a new class teaching watercolours and pastels, starting on Wednesday, September 30, and the next silk painting course begins in a couple of weeks.
The gallery is open 10.30am until 4.30pm Wednesday to Saturday and Tuesday afternoon. Anne can be contacted on 01248 812045.