With the country facing further weeks in lockdown, the arts organisation backed by PHD Equity Partners aims to lift the nation’s spirits with its campaign to create a Wall of Positivity.
The SAA, the international arts club run by our portfolio company Teaching Art. is challenging people of all ages to paint or draw a picture of what makes them feel positive and share it with a message to others. Entry is free of charge and artwork will be displayed in a virtual gallery on its website.
The Wall of Positivity follows on from the success of the SAA’s Paint a Poppy Challenge in 2018, which marked the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War and attracted over 10,500 submissions.
It says the lockdown is already inspiring people to rediscover the joys of art. Its Ready Steady Paint children’s art service has seen a 300% increase in subscriptions in the past two weeks, while sales of art supplies are up by 70% on the same period last year. During the lockdown Teaching Art is offering free access to a range of video tutorials by artists and a series of free children’s activities.
Laura Sephton, the SAA’s membership manager, said entries received so far range from pictures of holiday spots and nature to pets and favourite rock stars, reflecting what people were thinking of to maintain morale during the lockdown.
Laura added: “Art has been at the centre of human societies for thousands of years and is known to be beneficial for our mental health. It helps us express our feelings, overcome sadness and loss and create hope from despair.
“At a time when many are facing isolation, anxiety and grief, we are urging people to come together to create a Wall of Positivity and lift the spirits of the nation.”
