- By Carlos Norton, AUT Journalism Student
Over the past few years, a Howick-based artist collective has embraced art as a form of therapy, creating a supportive environment where members uplift and inspire each another.
Based in one of Uxbridge Arts and Culture’s studios, the collective consists of eight members and meets weekly to encourage budding and experienced artists to explore outside their comfort zones.
Its leader, Frith Jenkins, sees the studio as more than a space to work, saying: “It’s not just about the art, it’s about community. It’s about getting people together of like-mindedness”.
Whilst some members are full-time artists, many of the collective’s members create art in their own time for personal reasons, “from art therapy, soul-searching, to working on mental health”.
Cindy Francis, who creates abstract art as a form of art therapy and self-expression, started attending the collective only a few months ago.
However, through the encouragement and help of artists within the collective, she’s “flourished” and fine-tuned her art form.
Only three months after joining the group, Francis was invited to Malaysia to display her artwork at a wellness expo.
She never believed she’d reach her current point, saying, “I’ve always wanted to do art, but I never acted on it”.
Another member of the group, Calvin Chen, who happens to be Francis’s brother, began attending the group as a form of rehabilitation after suffering from a double stroke.
Carving wearable pieces from bone, crystal and other natural formations, the group has become a social activity for him, as well as a form of rehabilitation.
Jenkins pays for the space out of her own pocket, as she loves seeing artists in their element helping each other.
“You look at things differently as an artist, it’s all about the conversation … and helping each other out,” she says.
“It’s a crazy group of people, but I think that’s why we work”
Whilst some members are beginners in their craft, some have been creating artwork for decades, with all members being over 40 years old.
Self-taught artist Joy Adams is known as a “powerhouse” within the collective, having given many valuable skills to beginner artists.
She’s presenting an exhibition at the Auckland Art Show this week.
Another member of the group, Chris Mithch, is Howick’s resident ponamu carver at the Howick Local Market.
He’s also been approached to promote his work internationally on a website uplifting Māori artists.
Collective member Sally Picot highlights how everyone should try out art at least once.
“Art is a challenge, it’s always exciting to explore new territory you haven’t tried before,” she says.
The group isn’t currently accepting any new members but they’re all advocates for artistic expression as a form of wellness and therapy.
Speaking to those interested in any form of art, Picot wants to encourage people to get out there and explore the world of expression.
“If you’re looking to start exploring art, keep a journal, collect ideas and inspiration from around you.”
