An Lanntair’s Creative Connections project is set to continue throughout 2026/27, following a £4,000 grant from the Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund for Adults, provided by the Scottish Government and delivered by Third Sector Interface Western Isles.
Since its launch in 2020, the project has delivered an impressive 327 free creative workshops, supporting the mental health and wellbeing of people aged 60 and over across the Western Isles. Designed for those experiencing isolation, the initiative offers opportunities to develop new skills, take on creative challenges, and connect socially – either from home or in person.
Originally established during the COVID-19 lockdown, Creative Connections has evolved into a vital programme that reaches individuals who may otherwise face barriers to participation, including those living in remote areas, experiencing ill health or disability, or with caring responsibilities.
The programme will continue to offer a diverse range of creative classes both at An Lanntair and online. The first course of the new programme will be a six-week series on Landscape in Film and Painting, led by South Lochs-based artist Sandra Kennedy. Additional courses planned throughout the year include textiles, cyanotype, printmaking and assemblage.
An exhibition celebrating the work of Creative Connections participants will be presented in An Lanntair’s walkway gallery in June, coinciding with Healing Arts Scotland Week.
Project Co-ordinator Moira Macdonald said:
“When we began Creative Connections in 2020 during lockdown to support people who felt isolated, we discovered there were many people who had always struggled to access our arts education programmes due to geographic remoteness, ill health, disability and caring commitments. The online format enables people to meet with others and enjoy being creative together from their own homes. A vibrant creative community now exists, where people support each other through shared creative experiences, which is hugely important for mental health and wellbeing.”
Creative Connections continues to demonstrate the positive impact of the arts in fostering connection, creativity and wellbeing across the Western Isles.
These Prayer Flags were made by a thoughtful and reflective Creative Connections group in 2024. They were led by Scottish artist Annabel Pattulo who taught the course from her studio in Freiburg, Germany. The Prayer Flags were later exhibited in an exhibition on An Lanntair’s walkway.
