MEET OUR TUTORS: VALERIE RUTLEY-PAINE, DRAWN TO ART
The best activities are about more than filling your diary, they give you the chance to discover something that keeps you coming back.
Drawn to Art is one of the many activities available at St John’s Foundation. Taking place every Tuesday in the city centre, the class is led by local artist Valerie and welcomes people of all abilities.
As part of our Meet our Tutors series, we spoke to Valerie about her artistic journey and what brought her to St John’s, as well as taking a look at what makes Drawn to Art such a special part of our activities programme.
MEET VALERIE
Can you tell us a little about yourself and what first inspired your passion for art?
“From an early age, I loved drawing. Ever since I can remember, all I wanted to be was an artist. My inspiration came from books, comics and magazines, and I always knew I wanted to be a fashion artist because the stylisation and graphic approach really suited my drawing style.
I went on to study Fashion at Epsom Art School before studying Illustration and Fashion Drawing at Twickenham. After moving to Bath, I completed a Creative Arts course at Bath Spa University, where I explored printmaking, textiles and fine art.”
For Valerie, art has always been part of who she is. Her lifelong passion for creativity has shaped the way she teaches today, encouraging people to discover their own artistic voice.
BRINGING DRAWN TO ART TO ST JOHN’S
How did you become involved with St John’s Foundation?
“My tutor at Bath Spa suggested me as a prospective tutor for St John’s Foundation, which I was very happy to take on. I’ve enjoyed it immensely.”
What can someone expect when they come along to a Drawn to Art session, especially if they’ve never picked up a paintbrush before?
“Anyone can apply to the Drawn to Art sessions, although places are limited. I encourage students to express themselves freely and not have preconceived ideas about creating art.
I don’t always take a conventional approach. I like to stretch the way people look at art and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone because that’s often where learning begins.
We explore art in everyday life too, from packaging and street art to architecture and nature. I also like introducing different ways of creating, including three-dimensional work. One recent project looked at the Bauhaus School of Art, with participants creating Bauhaus Cubes that are currently on display at the Royal United Hospital.”
Her enthusiasm has helped create a welcoming class where participants are encouraged to experiment and learn whilst embracing the creative process. Drawn to Art welcomes anyone over the age of 55 who would like to explore their creativity, whether they have years of experience or are trying art for the first time.
THE VALUE OF CREATIVITY
Why do you think creative activities are so important for older adults, beyond simply learning a new skill?
“I don’t think art should be limited to any age group. It’s beneficial to everyone. The only real requirement is having the desire to express yourself.
The group I currently teach all come with their own stories. Some have health issues, which they cope with incredibly well, and it’s wonderful to see everyone encouraging one another while discovering their own creativity.”
Have there been any moments or stories from your classes that have really stayed with you?
“One of the most rewarding things is seeing people surprise themselves. Watching someone who doubted their ability discover what they can create is incredibly special. I enjoy helping people find confidence in their own ideas and seeing how much they grow over time.”
Art can offer much more than the chance to learn a new skill. For many people, it provides time to focus and express themselves, sometimes even learn something new.
What do you think makes the Drawn to Art group at St John’s Foundation special?
“I look to explore different themes, art movements and the artists behind them, so every topic offers something new. Most of all, I enjoy sharing my passion for art and making each session fun, interesting and exploratory.
Everyone brings something different to the class, and that’s what makes it so rewarding.”
Every group develops its own personality, shaped by the people who attend and the experiences they share. It’s this shared enthusiasm that makes Drawn to Art such a valued part of our activities programme.
GIVE IT A GO
If someone has been thinking about joining but isn’t sure they’re ‘creative enough’, what would you say to them?
“Don’t worry about whether you’re ‘good at art’. Just come with an open mind and a willingness to have a go. You might surprise yourself. The sessions are about exploring, experimenting and enjoying the process, not getting everything perfect.”
Drawn to Art takes place every Tuesday in The Bubble at St John’s.
If you would like to find out more about the class or explore the other activities available through St John’s Foundation, get in touch with our team.