Flow State Sessions aim to create a gentle space for creativity – where no experience in art is necessary. Flow is the mental state in which a person performing an activity is fully immersed in a feeling of energised focus, full involvement, and enjoyment in the process of the activity rather than just the outcomes. Research has shown that engaging in Flow State can be a useful tool to manage stress, anxiety and negative feelings.

Run by art therapists, the aim is to create a calm, accessible and supportive space, where participants feel at ease to learn new skills to enter Flow State and inspired to nurture their creativity.

This year we’re running two types of sessions: an Art Therapist Directed session which will teach you various creative tools to help with your mental health and an Open Studio session which allows you to practice creative skills at your own pace using the Gallery’s studio space and your choice of materials. Once you’ve completed one of the Art Therapist Directed sessions, you will be able to take part in any of the Open Studio sessions.

Our programme has been designed specifically for those with low to moderate mental health needs such as mild anxiety or low mood. They are also suitable for those feeling isolated, stressed or overwhelmed due to having an ongoing health condition or being a carer, for example.

All sessions take place at William Morris Gallery.

Upcoming dates:

• JUNE (Nature brushes):  Sunday 8 June directed session, Wednesday 25 June open studio
• JULY (Nature journaling) – Sunday 13 July directed session, Wednesday 30 July open studio
• SEPTEMBER (Slow stitching) – Sunday 14 September directed session, Wednesday 24 September open studio
• OCTOBER (Felt applique) – Sunday 12 October directed session, Wednesday 22 October open studio
• NOVEMBER (Mindful drawing) – Sunday 9 November directed session, Wednesday 26 November open studio
• JANUARY (Weaving) – Sunday 11 January directed session, Wednesday 28 January open studio
• FEBRUARY (Sculptural forms) – Sunday 8 February directed session, Wednesday 25 February open studio
• MARCH (Printing) – Sunday 8 March directed session, Wednesday 25 March open studio

As we are an arts organisation rather than mental health providers, these workshops are not suitable for those with complex mental health needs or for those in crisis. If you are in need of support, please contact the Waltham Forest Single Point of Access.

If you have any questions, comments or additional access requirements, please do not hesitate to contact: Christine Lai, Public Programme Curator, christine.lai@walthamforest.gov.uk