Every Monday morning I join up with a handful of stone carvers at a rural property in Rosa Brook to carve stone. Each of us works on our own piece but occasionally wander amongst the gathered artists to look at and talk about each other’s work in progress. Sometimes we offer advice on the work’s aesthetics and sometimes coaching on carving techniques. Monday mornings are the highlight of my week. There is a lot of joy and satisfaction for all at those gatherings.
Many people in our shire and beyond meet in groups to do art and craft. But there is more to this than meets the eye. These groups are an important part of the social and emotional wellbeing of our community. When most people think of crafting, they think of knitting, embroidery, ceramics, and sewing. However, it can include gardening, baking, woodturning, flower arranging, beadwork even tending a bonsai. Let’s peek in on a group that is meeting together to create mosaics, and look at how this works.
There is a sense of peace combined with intense focus among these individuals, who are in what we call a state of flow. They are so engrossed in their activities that they lose track of time and space. Although they are present with themselves, they simultaneously lose themselves in the process. Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi describes this phenomenon as the state of flow, which leads to changes in the brain and biochemistry, resulting in an enhanced sense of well-being and optimism. This is beneficial for mental health.
From time to time, someone moves around the room, engaging in quiet conversations with others. The designs, patterns, and techniques continuously present small challenges, but these challenges can be overcome. This brings a rush of satisfaction. Art and craft activities consistently confront us with new, minor challenges, and studies have shown that overcoming these challenges is intrinsically rewarding.
Sometimes, a member shares their work in progress with the group, which helps everyone appreciate their efforts. Other times, a member asks for feedback on their work, looking for the group’s expertise to solve a specific issue. This teamwork makes everyone feel satisfied and encourages learning and success together. Building social relationships is important for mental health, and we can see this improvement in action.
Everyone at the workshop has their own worries at home, like sick family members, money issues, or unemployment. But during the workshop, those worries fade away. This space offers peace and quiet, allowing them to recharge before facing the challenges outside.
After each session, participants leave feeling accomplished. They not only create something but also learn useful skills. This sense of learning helps improve their mental health.
During coffee breaks, group members chat and make friendships. These connections are not always deep, but they enjoy seeing each other in the supermarket, at movie nights, or around town. It helps them feel less alone. Sometimes, they donate their mosaics to charity, which gives everyone a sense of helping others and boosts their mental well-being.
Mosaics have a long history, and while this group isn’t trying to copy ancient works, they appreciate being part of a traditional craft. This involvement helps them feel connected to a meaningful community with cultural roots.
The local mosaic society organizes their meetings. They have a committee that manages finances and other details. Although dealing with the committee can be frustrating, it adds to their sense of purpose. Committee meetings can be tedious, but having coffee or a drink afterwards helps build social connections and enhances their community spirit.
However, there are challenges. Many members struggle to find time for workshops or to help run the organisation. Some find it hard to pay for materials and tools, while others feel they’re not learning skills quickly enough. A few committee members can be bossy or unhelpful, and some do a lot of work but make sure everyone notices. Despite these issues, the committee functions well enough to support the group. Overall, it promotes social and emotional well-being, improving the mental health of all members.
Craft and art activities are essential for the social and emotional wellbeing of our community. The physical and mental benefits of craft include reducing stress and blood pressure, reduced depression and anxiety, diverting focus from chronic pain and illness, increased wellbeing and sense of usefulness. In groups, this also includes reduced loneliness and isolation.
This Sunday the 13th April, you can join us for a free community event as part of Stories that Quilts Tell at the Margaret River HEART. There will be a panel discussion involving retired GP Peter Durey, Maureen Munro, the organiser of the quilting exhibition and myself, Martin Ringer to further explore and discuss the tangible social and emotional benefits of taking part in craft. All are welcome, so come along and enjoy.
Martin Ringer is entering his seventh year as a Margaret River resident. He and his wife were attracted to the area in part because of the thriving arts community. Martin is a stone carver, author and retired organisational consultant, adventure therapist and socio-analyst. He is a previous board member and Chair of Mindful Margaret River.
Mindful Margaret River is funded by the Mental Health Commission. You can find out more on our website mindfulmargarteriver.org.au, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @mindful_margaret_river
