Memories of the seaside were the subject of an exhibition of residents’ art work at a Loughton care home.

The ‘Forgotten Shores’ exhibition was the culmination of more than six months’ work by members of Woodland Grove’s art club.

The selection of seascapes was created through a process of reminiscence and imagination, under the guidance of lifestyles assistant and artist, Ali Kemp.

She said: "We chose images of the sea as everyone has memories of being by the coast. This project has encouraged residents to come out of their shells and lose themselves in creating something they didn’t think they could achieve.

“The therapeutic benefits of art are proven time and time again. For our residents, the classes give them a sense of control, of purpose.

“Some of them have almost been too nervous to even try but then they’ve been blown away by what they’ve been able to achieve. It’s wonderful to see the satisfaction and the thrill they get from their work.”

Epping Forest Guardian:

Three quarters of the group have dementia including 91 year old John Lawrance who used to paint regularly.

The club has given him the opportunity to rediscover a joy he’d forgotten.

“I love using watercolours,” he said.

“I’m inclined to say I think I’ve done a good job with my paintings and I’m very proud to show them in the exhibition. It’s quite something to think they could end up on someone’s wall."

Epping Forest Guardian:

For Iris Young, 81, this was the first time she’s ever picked up a paintbrush.

She said: "I enjoyed creating this piece more than I thought I would, especially taking part with other people.

“I’m really pleased with the cliffs – they actually look like cliffs - smashing!”

Loughton’s mayor, Cllr Stephen Murray, was among the guests at the exhibition on Rectory Lane on Thursday February 28.

Epping Forest Guardian:

The evening ended with an auction of the artwork which raised over £800 for the art club’s materials and other craft activities at the home.

Woodland Grove offers residential, nursing, memory and respite care for up to 72 people.

It recently received an overall ‘good’ rating from inspectors from the Care Quality Commission, following their visit to the home on December 3 2018.