Creative Art Therapy Group
We’re delighted to announce the dates for our Creative Art Therapy Group restarting after the summer break at Poplar Union this September 2026, led by Andy Ridley, an experienced visual artist, art therapist, and lecturer in art therapy.
Andy has spent most of his life as a practising visual and studio artist and over 20 years working in health and education, combining his passion for art with his experience in health and wellbeing. His career has focused on exploring the personal and social benefits of shared creative activity, particularly how art can open ways of expressing thoughts, feelings, and memories that words sometimes cannot. Living and working in East London, Andy is deeply connected to the local community and is excited to bring his knowledge and energy to Poplar Union’s creative arts programme.
As before, the Creative Art Therapy Group will run monthly from September 2026, offering a safe and supportive environment where participants can explore a variety of art materials and personal and guided themes. Each session will encourage self-expression, self-awareness, and connection through artmaking. You will have the chance to:
• Try out different artistic processes and materials.
• Express and explore personal thoughts and feelings in a safe, creative and culturally sensitive environment.
• Develop greater insight into your emotional world and wellbeing.
• Share the experience of making art in a group setting, fostering connection and creativity.
This group is open to adults (18+) of all artistic abilities. No prior experience of artmaking is required. Andy will provide technical support where needed, while also encouraging participants to follow their own creative paths. All materials provided.
