Parkinson’s patients create art installation

An art installation created by people with Parkinson's is set to go on display York.

Members of the Parkinson's Creatives art class have been working to create the butterfly-themed artwork at weekly sessions at Hartrigg Oaks retirement.

The installation is set to be exhibited at St Helen's Square and York Theatre Royal.

Paul Hopkin, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's two years ago, said he enjoyed the camaraderie of the classes, adding: " I like the people that come and I like the fact that we’re doing something positive.”

The group, which is supported by Parkinson’s UK’s York branch, used household items including a parasol to make flowers and ring binders to make the butterflies which will form part of the installation.

Mr Hopkin, who is part of the sessions, said coming to the group helps his symptoms.

“It gives you a purpose for the day. It gives you an opportunity to meet people that you wouldn’t have otherwise have met. It keeps my brain ticking over," he said.

Mel Spanton has been coming to the group for 18 months along with her daughter, Ella.

She said: “The sense of community is fantastic, just the ability to be with other people with Parkinson’s and laugh and just make fun of each other and also to have a creative outlet.”

Her daughter, Ella, who was visiting from her home in Manchester said: “It’s really reassuring for me not living as close to Mum as I used to, to know that she’s got somewhere nice that she can come and have a good support system for her.”

Anne Lattimore has been coming to the group for about a year and was making origami butterflies out of cloth. She said: “It’s got me out doing more art which I enjoy anyway and it’s helped because I used to make a lot of quilts which I can’t manage now with my hands but I can do other things like draw so it helps quite a lot.”

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