Emily Martin is one of those individuals that here at CommunityAd we often find ourselves writing about, a local resident who is using their talents and gifts to benefit the community. The creative has been running workshops called Cut Glue Make Do since 2018.
She recalls its origin at the Hunter Room in Bridge where her very first workshop had just 4 participants but acted as the catalyst for what has become ‘a real community’ of crafters. CommunityAd had the pleasure of speaking to Emily who remarks on what a friendly, smiley place Bridge has been to her all of her life.
It must be a very rewarding job, what do you enjoy most about it?
I love it! There’s nothing quite like sharing creative ideas and seeing genuine excitement and joy with what my participants have made. I believe creativity is good for our mind. I encourage workshop participants to learn through play and experimentation in a positive and supportive environment. The workshops are process led rather than outcome, letting everyone explore their own creative potential.
Summer looked like a lot of fun, are you planning more workshops (during half term* or Christmas)?
Yes, it was! Summer months are always the busiest. I am planning 3 workshops for half term in Bridge and lots of Christmas workshops for adults and children from printmaking to using my beloved heat press! I can’t wait.
A lot of people during the darkest days of the pandemic took up a new creative hobby in aid of distracting themselves from the doom and gloom, why do you think creative endeavour no matter what form it takes is so important for the human spirit and one’s mental health?
Creativity is so important for our mental health. It’s pure escapism. Art provides the perfect distraction tool to avoid those everyday stresses of life. It brings people together and builds on self-esteem and confidence. I don’t know where I’d be without Art and Design! It’s my safe place.
Why is it so important that children partake in creative endeavours?
Creativity allows children to express their feelings and personalities, developing their thinking skills, imagination and emotional understanding of the world. You’ll always get a few children that will say ‘they can’t draw’. I believe everyone can draw and giving children that confidence to explore their own creative potential is the best feeling.
To find out more about Emily’s budding creative community and get involved in the Cut Glue Make Do Christmas events visit Facebook @cutgluemakedo or check out her website.