Weston tenant gets creative for a good cause

Janice from Weston creates decorative glass bottles, which are sold by a local craft shop that is raising funds for a Malawi village.

Janice, who has always enjoyed painting, said she started decorating bottles in her flat during lockdown, when she bought some art supplies for her grandson.

"I’ve always liked collecting glass bottles but during lockdown I started to paint them and found I really enjoyed creating different designs on the various shaped bottles! It was a relaxing and creative outlet to do at home during the pandemic, so I was surprised and delighted when it turned into a way to make some extra cash! Friends and colleagues said they wanted to buy my pieces of art, so I started advertising on Facebook. Then I discovered Kookies Crafts in Woolston, where local artists and crafters can rent a shelf in order to sell their lovingly made creations. Kookies, which opened about a year ago, is run by Viv, who uses the money made from renting shelves to help support a Malawi village. Thanks to her donations, a laptop and sewing machine have already been purchased and sent to Africa.

"Now I am retired, I have more time to spend on my artwork, which has such a positive effect on my wellbeing. I never dreamt that my hobby would benefit me and other people in such a remarkable way! It’s rewarding to know that, through Kookies Crafts, I am helping to change the lives of people in Malawi."

Inspired?

If Janice’s story has inspired you (or someone you know) to take up or develop an interesting hobby, please get in touch, and we could be featuring you in our next issue of Tenants Link! If you live in sheltered housing, did you know that you can develop a hobby and learn new skills ranging from keep fit and crafts to computers thanks to our city-wide Activities Programme? Simply email our Activity Coordinators to find out what’s on offer near you.