Salvation Army Falmouth hosts art festival

The art festival was hosted at Falmouth church in Cornwall bringing together the community to share in the celebration of art. 

Artists who displayed their work came from diverse backgrounds and many have faced challenges in their lives. Some have slept rough and experienced homelessness, many are older people from the local community, and some people have practical and learning difficulties. 

The art on show ranged from landscapes to portraits and pottery, encompassing a wide variety of mediums. The festival gave the artists a chance to illustrate their experiences and showcase the beauty of their local area, using photography, pen and ink, pottery, acrylics, water colours and crystal art. 

Josie, a Salvation Army Volunteer, said: " I have been very excited to be a part of our exhibition by showcasing my pottery and helping set the art festival up.” Josie enjoyed the “collaboration and inclusivity” of the exhibition.

The event was delivered in partnership between The Salvation Army’s Lieutenant Karen Thomas, the leader of Falmouth church and Rosie Emmanuel, Homelessness Prevention Co-ordinator. At Falmouth, Karen provides a thriving and welcoming space, offering a charity shop, drop-ins, café and hot meals alongside worship and opportunities for congregations throughout the week. Rosie provides training, advice and support to volunteers and officers throughout Cornwall who are supporting people who are homeless and vulnerably housed.

Lieutenant Karen Thomas, said "Today felt like we were offering a change of perspective and that our attendees are not defined by their life challenges."

For more information about the work of The Salvation Army Falmouth, please visit: https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/falmouth