OASIS, our pilot project created to ease social isolation and loneliness by connecting participants with art, creative activities, and communities of like-minded people, kicks off in Guildford & Waverley.

The OASIS project aims to place meaningful artworks, specially produced by artists for individuals, directly into people’s homes and to enable eligible participants to make new social connections through a range of guided conversations and group activities.

Initially launching in the Guildford and Waverley area, OASIS is a way for people battling with social isolation and loneliness to get together to explore new creative and cultural experiences, while lending a supportive ear or offering advice to others experiencing similar struggles.

Loneliness and social isolation are growing public health concerns in our ageing society. 50% of people over 60 are at risk of social isolation and one-third will experience loneliness later in life.¹ Research shows that loneliness is associated with poorer physical and mental health amongst older people. In particular, loneliness is associated with depression, and older people with a high degree of loneliness are twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease as those with a low degree of loneliness.²

To deliver the OASIS pilot project, Paintings in Hospitals has partnered with Reconnections by Independent Age. Reconnections support over 65s who feel lonely or isolated.

Drawing ducks with a non-dominant hand

This first outing and activity saw participants enjoy a bit of fresh air on a group walk and have a go at sketching the local ducks with a non-dominant hand. Practising drawing with your non-dominant hand (your right hand if you are left handed, or your left hand if you are right handed), can be a useful way to experiment with mark making without worries about the finished result holding you back. It also exercises a different part of your brain than when using your dominant hand.

Trying out some digital photography with the OASIS group 

The second and most recent outing was a photography workshop at a local beauty spot. Participants met up for a cup of tea, followed by a walk to the lake to explore photography with smartphones, try out a chest harness GoPro, and go old school with some cameras and a zoom lens!

Some amazing results from the first OASIS photography workshop

Find out more about the OASIS project...