One of Art in the Frame Foundation’s success stories has been the ‘You Are Never Too Old’ group – a friendly and creative weekly meet-up that’s been running for almost three years at The Harbour Gallery Jersey.
Held every Tuesday afternoon from 1.30 – 3.30pm, the group welcomes anyone over 60 and offers a relaxed space to learn new skills, chat, and enjoy tea and cake (donations welcome). With around 40 regular members and more than 50 others who’ve joined over the years, the group has made a real difference in many lives – some members have gained confidence, made lasting friendships, and even taken on new roles, including one who now volunteers at the gallery.
There are two groups to choose from. One focuses on knitting and crochet, producing a colourful array of toys and garments – and sharing plenty of stories and laughs along the way. The other group alternates between textile and 3D projects with Karen Behan, and painting sessions with artist Maureen Osborne.
This spring, members explored ‘slow stitching’ with Karen, using donated fabric scraps, threads and beads to create beautiful 30cm squares under the theme ‘Primavera – The Birth of Spring’. The cheerful colours and thoughtful designs have been hung around the gallery in a continuous line, each square a unique little piece of textile art.
The gallery is always full of energy when the group meets. Whether you come for the crafts, the conversation, or just the cake, it’s a welcoming place to spend a couple of hours each week.
Thanks to the Sir James Knott Trust and Jersey Community Foundation for supporting this valuable community group.
If you’d like to join or find out more, email or call the gallery on 01534 743044 and ask for Pat.
Main picture: Pauline
