Bradford Museums and Galleries has tied up with Creative Stroke Recovery Group which works alongside Artworks Creative Communities to set up an exhibition promoting awareness on strokes at Bradford Industrial Museum. The exhibition will open on 29 October and go on till 7 January.
The Bradford District has a high incidence of strokes, with over 1,000 reported cases each year, and since the pandemic the network of available support groups has shrunk
Anne Sanasy, a founding member of the Creative Stroke Recovery Group explains: “We’ve been meeting since 2012 and are living proof of two important things. Firstly, anyone can be affected by a stroke. Yes, anyone. Our group is a mixed bunch of stroke survivors, across a wide age range, united in this one shared experience. Secondly, creativity can help in recovery, and it has done for all of us. We want to share our experience and wisdom so that others are encouraged, and more stroke survivors and service providers have confidence in using creativity as part of the recovery process”
Rachel Charlton of the group said: “Our event is not about the doom and gloom”. She adds: “We want to let people know there are things they can do to help recovery. We have produced some great materials, even a DVD, so even if it’s hard to get out of the house, you can make a start”
These resources and many more will be available at the exhibition on the 29th October and right through to 7 January 2023.
If you or someone you know has had a stroke, come along and be inspired by the exhibition, enjoy the opportunity to talk with stroke survivors about your experience, discover what groups and resources there are in Bradford and maybe think about joining Creative Stroke Recovery Group.
Sarah Muckle, Director of Public Health at Bradford Council said: “We are happy to support the Creative Stroke Recovery Group on World Stroke Day 2022. Strokes can happen to anyone and can be devastating for individuals and their families. As this exhibition proves, art and creativity can be a fantastic outlet that not only provides a therapeutic route to recovery, but also a group setting where those effected by strokes and get together and share their experiences. If you or someone you know is recovering from a stroke, come and join this wonderful event on World Stroke Day.”
Deb Collett of Artworks Creative Communities said: “Stroke is prevalent in Bradford and knows no barriers. It can be a traumatic and life changing experience. The challenge for many people is building their lives after. We are all about creativity and companionship – both are so very important to rediscovery and recovery. We use all sorts of different ways to achieve this: flexing muscles that need strengthening, focus and concentration, relaxation, and imagination. All these qualities are evident in our exhibition. World Stroke Day creates an opportunity to find out more from the experts by experience – stroke survivors.”
All information on the exhibition
- Exhibition runs until 7 January, 2023, at Bradford Industrial Museum
- World Stroke Day Event on Saturday 29th October 2022 from 11-2
- CSRG meets weekly on Tuesdays 10-12 at Delius Arts and Cultural Centre
- Contact csrgbradford@gmail.com or deborah@artwokscreative.org.uk
