As a resident of the Brighton& Hove foyer it has been my pleasure and privilege to take part in a long running and much appreciated art project.

It all started with the hiring of a healthy living co-ordinator, and we got a real gem with our lovely Lucy. Within a month she was already starting projects to improve the general atmosphere of the foyer.

One scheme was the re-vamp of our communal TV room. We all worked together, with the help of Lucy, to create a space we could be proud of and be comfortable in. from this stemmed questions on how to decorate the room, how to make it ours, and so came about the idea of each resident painting their own individual canvas (or canvases) to be on display in the TV room.

Suddenly most of the residents had painting fever, we couldn’t get enough! Before long it was obvious that there were some hidden talents in our residents!

So some how form many different group activities (photography trips, canvas workshops) came the idea to hold our own exhibition, so all that was hidden could be put on public display and really convey a positive image of the foyer residents and of the foyer itself.

What an amazing experience it was, such long preparation, so much planning, anxiety and adrenalin! But it was all worth it, we had such a wonderful positive response, and it really made us all so proud of what we had achieved. Everyone worked so hard and pulled together to make our exhibition a real success. So much so that we already have plans and ideas for next year! Watch this space!

After the last exhibition there was a euphoric lull where we all felt our task was accomplished. But there were a couple of surprises still in store for us!

The news of our exhibition had spread, and we were stunned when an artist asked to put some of our work on display at a drink& drugs awareness exhibition on west street, of course we were thrilled and agreed straight away. I was lucky enough to witness the official opening by Baroness Scotland; it was truly a great experience. My pride at that point for being involved was immense and I felt like I had achieved one of my dreams, to have my artwork on display at a public exhibition!

With a smile on my face and a glow in my heart I continued to be involved as much as possible while working nearly full time, and I was happy I had experienced my moment. How I was surprised when only three weeks later Lucy told me that 2 of my larger pieces were chosen to be displayed at Foyer’s 15^th anniversary event in London! I was astounded!

I thoroughly enjoyed taking part in this amazing experience and I think I speak for all involved when I say that I hope this project continues with all the current success. Art has helped towards a calm and creative atmosphere and has greatly improved our quality of life.

Written by:

Catherine Hobden.