A NEWLY opened art gallery and social enterprise in Helensburgh is putting quality of life first in the New Year with a range of activities and events aimed at maintaining positive mental health and well-being.

Located on the seafront, Helensburgh Art Hub is set up as two art galleries but additionally, art classes, workshops and events have been supplied for all demographics including children, adults and those with additional support needs.

The not-for-profit group is currently working closely with other local businesses and organisations to supply new workshops and activities with a focus on well-being for the New Year.

“The winter months can be difficult for some so these workshops aim to provide a coping strategy or distraction to locals suffering from depression and anxiety or those who just need a break from daily life,” said the hub's Karlyn Marshall.

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Already on the line-up of workshops for January and February is textile therapy, silk painting, origami, crocheting, paper craft, pottery and brooch making which feature commonalities such as a repetitive and therapeutic motion with the hands and a bright open environment - both known to help lift mood and relieve stress in the correct circumstances.

Describing some of the other events being planned, Karlyn said: “We also have a health and well-being event in the Art Hub on Friday, January 31.

"We'll be offering therapies such as hand massages, hand or foot reflexology and Indian head massages from Jill and Laura from Lomond Clinic and Pauline from Pampered at Dairy Cottage, and there will also be seated tai chi sessions from Hermitagetaiji and a mocktail bar to really get us relaxed.

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“As well as that, on January 11 at the Living Well Fest 2020, organised by Helensburgh and Lomond Health and Wellbeing Network, we will be joined by Sharon from Sew Silly Lily demonstrating the benefits of Textile Therapy.”

Karlyn, the owner of the hub, wants to create a community of artists and crafters but needs the support of others.

She added: “We are always looking for volunteers to join our events team or help in any other aspect of the organisation and Co-op members can directly support us by choosing us as their local cause on the Co-op website.”

To find out more about the hub, check the ‘Helensburgh Art Hub’ Facebook page or visit their website – helensburgharthub.com.

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