Art Studio for Mental Health Faces Funding Crisis

For over 30 years, the City Art Centre has been a sanctuary for Londoners navigating mental health challenges, offering a unique space for emotional expression through art. This volunteer-run, non-profit studio provides free access to art supplies and a supportive environment, helping participants explore their feelings and find hope. Many individuals, like art co-ordinator Gerry Arnold and volunteer Carrie Vanderheyden, have personally experienced profound healing and recovery through the studio's programs.

The center, located in the basement of Innovation Works, welcomes adults struggling with mental health without requiring referrals, aiming to remove barriers to access. Participants can engage with various art mediums, fostering self-discovery and a sense of community. The studio's impact is visible on its walls, adorned with a diverse array of artwork created by its members over the years.

Despite its long-standing service, City Art Centre is now confronting significant financial challenges. With dwindling resources and a small team of dedicated volunteers, the studio is appealing to the community for essential donations of art supplies and financial aid to ensure its doors remain open. The urgent need for support threatens the continuation of this invaluable resource for mental well-being in London.