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A Love Letter to London and Paddington Arts

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By: Jake Keller

In the blink of an eye, my time here at Paddington Arts has come to a close. During my stay in London, I have learned countless lessons that will stick with me for the rest of my life. I am incredibly grateful to the people at Paddington Arts who have helped to make this experience better than I ever could have asked for, and I am sad to say goodbye. 

It shocks me to say this, but my short 6-week stay here is the most time I have ever spent outside of my hometown in the United States. I was born and raised in Bloomington, Indiana, and I reluctantly decided to stay there for university as well. Although I am excited to see my loved ones, I don’t want to leave London behind. 

London was not my first choice of a city to live in; it just happened to be the city that my program chose to send me to. I’m glad that this is where I ended up because if it were left to me, I may have never gotten the opportunity to fall in love with this city. I do have a few complaints: London broke my bank account, hayfever nearly killed me, and I have several qualms with the plumbing… However, the list of what I love about London is much longer. 

There’s no time to be bored here, and there are endless activities to do and sights to see. Even on days when I felt like sitting around and doing nothing in my flat, I’d opt instead to make my way to a new park, grab a bite to eat, and just sit and read.  The options for grub are endless here as well, and as a foodie, that spoke to my soul. I made a new best friend in Too Good To Go, scoring deals on Indian, Japanese, and Ethiopian cuisine. The variety of food in London is one of the many benefits of the city’s multicultural spirit. 

The mission of Paddington Arts spoke to me, and I feel like I was meant to find my way to this organization. The arts, particularly theatre, helped me navigate through many challenges growing up. Performing helped me to find myself, and it truly shaped me as a person. Paddington Arts gives children the same opportunity to find themselves and provides them with the support they need to grow. I feel as if working as an intern here has allowed me to give back to the arts what they gave to me, and to pass the baton on to future generations. 

One thing I immediately noticed about Paddington Arts is how dedicated the people here are to the organization. The time and dedication that they give to this cause are beyond admirable, and I’ve been able to see firsthand the impact their work has on the community. 

Looking back on the past six weeks, there is not a single thing I would change, and for that I am thankful. 

Retreating from the City: The Seven Sisters Cliffs

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By: Jake Keller

After a few weeks of getting lost in the bustling metropolis of London, I was ready to take a break from the city. The Seven Sisters offered me an idyllic escape along the southern coast of England. It only took around two hours to get there, and the sights were truly breathtaking.

I departed from Victoria Station around 12:30 p.m. with my travel companion, Simran, and we embarked on a train ride to Eastbourne. It was a charming town with a few shops and restaurants, but I only saw a small part of it as we rushed to catch our bus. There’s an option to take a 13-mile hike beginning at Eastbourne, but we opted for the 7–8 mile route from Birling Gap. The trip to Birling Gap requires a bus from Eastbourne. We accidentally got on a hop-on-hop-off bus, and although it was a little more expensive (£12), the upper deck’s open top offered us fantastic views.

Birling Gap has a visitor center and a café, which offers your last chance to purchase food; however, we had decided to pack our own. It was a little unclear where to go next, but we eventually found a gravel road that led us to the cliffs. A heavy shroud of fog made visibility limited; it felt as if we were in the clouds. I slowly walked toward the edge and peered down at the ocean as waves crashed onto the shore. It was stunning. 

The first half of the hike took us over the Seven Sisters themselves. As the name suggests, there are seven peaks. The trek is a pattern of walking uphill and then treading down a steep decline. The haze was thick, but we could still see the sisters’ faces protruding over the infinite sea below. An hour or so passed before we reached the halfway point: Cuckmere Haven.

The path dipped down and led us toward a rocky beach. The sky was gray, almost like a storm was near, but a few people still swam in the water. We were in a valley between the Seven Sisters and their neighboring cliffs, with a river dividing them. We explored the beach for a moment but decided to make our way forward in pursuit of a picnic spot. As we approached the river, we realized there was no bridge. I checked my map and saw that the nearest bridge was a mile down the Cuckmere River.

At first, I was annoyed by this unexpected detour, my stomach grumbling, but as we ventured into the countryside, my spirits shifted. There were pastures full of cows and sheep, backdropped by the distant cliffs. The rolling green hills seemed never-ending, and the sun began to peek through the clouds. On our way back toward the sea, after crossing the bridge, I stopped to photograph bunnies snacking on the grass.

When we finally made it back to the cliffs, the weather had turned. We continued our hike and looked back at a clear view of the peaks we had traversed. We found a spot above the cottages at Cuckmere Haven and settled in for our picnic. It was perfectly serene, and we had a stunning view of the Seven Sisters. We were in no rush as we tried to take it all in.

Onward we went to the town of Seaford, where our train home was set to depart. The conclusion of the hike was much flatter. I felt euphoric and continued to look back at the gorgeous cliffs now behind us. On the horizon, the sky was painted with shades of tangerine and cerulean, and we walked toward it. Our hike came to an end, and we took the train back to the city. The day was complete, and my heart was full.

A Journey Back in Time at Shakespeare’s Iconic Globe Theatre

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By: Jake Keller

Stepping into the Globe Theatre is like a waltz back into the 17th century. The exposed wooden beams and thatched roof work together to transport you to medieval times, and when the performers step foot on the stage, your place in the past is solidified. 

I visited Shakespeare’s Globe to watch the classic play “Romeo and Juliet“, but the performance differed slightly from the original. Although the script was largely the same, and the plot remained, the well-known tragedy was set in the Wild West. Actors spoke in American country accents, engaged in saloon brawls, and were adorned with cowboy hats and boots. The show maintained the integrity of William Shakespeare’s original script while offering an exciting modern twist. 

The Globe Theatre first opened in 1599, and surprisingly enough, it was constructed by Shakespeare’s own company of actors, the Lord Chamberlain’s Men. It burned down in 1613 after a cannon misfired during a performance of “Henry VIII”, and it was rebuilt a year later. Unfortunately, the Globe only stood for another 30-odd years before it was demolished to make room for housing, as the Puritans who had obtained power in Parliament deemed theatrical performances “sinful”. 

In 1971, actor and director Sam Wanamaker embarked on a journey to fulfil his dream of reconstructing the Globe. While this endeavor took over 20 years of fundraising and research, construction of the new Globe Theatre was finalized in 1997. The theatre that stands now is merely a replica of the original. It’s about half the size of the Globe where Shakespeare set foot, and despite being near the original site, it was not built in the exact location. Nonetheless, these small details are obsolete in comparison to the work Wanamaker did to bring the magic of the original playhouse back to life in our time.  

The performances are raw. Rather than focusing on over-the-top set design and lighting, they focus on the play itself. The actors don’t wear microphones, but the emotion in their voices carries throughout the house. The audience interacted with the show like none I had ever seen before. There was endless laughter and audible gasping. The performers artfully broke the fourth wall, and at one point, Mercutio sat on the edge of the stage, bending down slowly to kiss a member of the audience right in front of my eyes. He pulled back sharply, and the audience roared with delight. 

If you’re visiting London, I strongly encourage a trip to the Globe. I found that even those who do not usually enjoy theatre found a deeper appreciation after the show’s conclusion. There is perhaps no more authentic a representation of what a Shakespearean play may have felt like circa 1613. We have added modern comforts, but when you dial in to the performance itself, coupled with the atmosphere of the gorgeous theatrical space, you are truly sent on a journey back in time. 



A Brief Guide to London’s Charity Shops

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By: Jake Keller

While wandering around the streets of London, you’ll likely stumble upon one of the many charity shops. Each of these unique stores sells second-hand apparel, and often more, in the pursuit of fundraising for a cause of their choice. 

This model is not uncommon outside of the UK, and as a student studying abroad, I’m most familiar with the “thrift stores” of the United States. Shops of this likeness have increased in popularity over the years, especially with members of Gen Z. “Thrifting”, the act of purchasing second-hand apparel, has become trendy. Not only does it open shoppers up to a more unique selection of clothing, but it is oftentimes cheaper than traditional retailers, and it is a more sustainable option. Marissa Finney, 19, added to this assertion, “I like that the charity shops don’t support overconsumption, and that the clothing is cyclical.” 

This week, I visited eight different charity shops around the London area to help compile a guide for those looking to boost their wardrobe while supporting a worthy cause. 

Interior of Barnardo’s, 7 George St, London W1U 3QH

The first shop that I visited was the Barnardo’s on George Street. A charity shop that aims to support children living in poverty in the UK, this shop has everything from clothing to books. There are items as low as £1 and as high as £800, depending on the brand. If you’re looking for a wide range of brands, including high-end fashion like Prada, this might be the shop for you, but be prepared to pay the price. 

Exterior of Cancer Research UK, 24 Marylebone High St, London W1U 4PQ

The second stop of my journey was Cancer Research UK, located in Marylebone. The mission of this particular shop is to raise funds for research that helps to prevent, diagnose, and treat the disease. In addition to a wide range of second-hand merchandise, Cancer Research UK also offers its own branded items such as tote bags and mugs. I found a baseball jersey that I couldn’t resist, and I ended up spending £24 in the shop. Much like Barnardo’s, the shop offers several designer options such as Hermes and Burberry, and as a result, it is a bit on the pricier side. 

Exterior of Oxfam, 91 Marylebone High St, London W1U 4RB

Next, I went to Oxfam, my final stop in the Marylebone area. Oxfam uses its proceeds to prevent poverty on a global scale, and it’s curated a brand that focuses on fighting climate instability. Oxfam sets itself apart with vintage clothing sections as well as an eco-friendly area. By now, I noticed that this area was prone to receiving higher-end donations and charging more as a result, and while that could be seen as a plus to those searching for Valentino, it is not ideal for bargain hunters. 

Exterior of Shop from Crisis, 74 Kingsland High St, London E8 2NS

After a few hours, I ventured out of Marylebone and made my way to Dalston, where my first stop was Shop from Crisis. The store has so much character and their mission is pasted on the front window: “This shop ends homelessness.” There’s a cafe inside, which is a unique touch, and the prices are much more consistent, ranging anywhere from £5 to £60. The brands are mostly generic, like Gap and Zara, but they are reasonably priced. This shop is well suited for those in search of a good deal in a trendy atmosphere. 

Interior of Traid, 106-108 Kingsland High St, London E8 2NS

Down the street from Shop from Crisis, I stumbled into Traid, a shop with the primary goal of encouraging the purchase of second-hand clothing to promote sustainability. They give back to fight global poverty and support the people who work to make our clothes. The store is much larger than the others, and prices remain consistently around £10 to £20. Traid seemed like the perfect spot for someone seeking out a hidden gem. 

Interior of Boutique by Shelter, 159 Upper St, London N1 1US

Eventually, I left Dalston and made my way to Islington, where I found Boutique by Shelter. Similar to Crisis, this store also seeks to fight homelessness, and it has a chic, modern feel. Most of the store consists of clothing, and there are various brands like Hollister and Tommy Hilfiger, with the average price being £10 to £20. The shop is small, but it’s reasonably priced and lives up to the boutique title. 

Exterior of Sue Ryder, 72 Essex Rd, London N1 8LT

Also in the Islington area, I found my way into Sue Ryder, a charity shop that uses their proceeds to help people who need end-of-life care. In addition to palliative care and hospice services, the organization helps to support those suffering grief. The shop is small, and they sell basic brands for reasonable prices, mostly less than £10 each. Although the selection is minimal, the prices make this shop worth a visit. 

Exterior of FARA, Angel House, 28 Pentonville Rd, London N1 9HJ

My final stop of the day was FARA, a charity that provides care and help for vulnerable children and families in Romania. They have kids’ clothing and books in carts outside for 50p a piece, and a medium-sized selection of clothing inside that rarely exceeds more than £10. There is also a small bookshelf where I bought an entire trilogy for £3. In my opinion, they offered some of the best prices on quality brands, and all in all, it was a great spot to end the day. 

I Became a Wedding Crasher on My First Day in London

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By: Jake Keller

After around 12 hours of travel, by car, plane, and foot, I arrived in the illustrious city of London. I only received around 4 hours of less-than-ideal sleep in an airplane seat, but I was told that the best way to overcome jet lag was to make it through the day. Thankfully, I had a plan to fight fatigue and simultaneously immerse myself in the multicultural city: attend an Indian wedding.

My friend and fellow student traveler, Simran, had a sister visiting London for the wedding, and she wanted us to go; we agreed without hesitation. After getting ready, we embarked on our journey, which began with a walk to hop on the Elizabeth line of London’s train system, known as the “Tube” by locals. It should be no surprise that we got on the wrong train, but we persevered, and after traveling about an extra hour than we should have, we made it to the wedding.

In my head, I had pictured a crowded event, but as we entered the doors, I began to feel like a wedding-crasher. Simran left with her sister for the bathroom, and I sat alone at a table, avoiding what I interpreted as strange looks from the guests and the bride who wondered why I was there. I had never been to anything other than a traditional American wedding before. The customs were different from what I was used to, as was the music and the garb. I felt like a bit of an outsider, worrying that I was unwanted, but then, I got invited to the dance floor.

I’ve always hated dancing at weddings. I feel exposed as my lack of skill is on display for all to see. One time I attended a wedding where the pair getting married were clogging instructors, and as you can imagine, everyone took to the dance floor to clog. I was a plus one to that wedding as well, and when my friend dragged me onto the dance floor, I clicked and clacked my heels on the ground like a newborn giraffe. Flashforward, and I was once again forced to dance at a wedding where the style was unfamiliar, but I did my best to mimic the movements of my dance partner. She smiled and laughed as Simran recorded us, and I found myself grinning ear to ear.

I felt included in the wedding of these two people whom I had never met. They did not know my name, yet they welcomed me with open arms. Most of those whom I talked to spoke to me in Punjabi, a language that I don’t know, but that never limited their hospitality. One man in particular kept offering me drinks and asking me if I was having fun. Simran had to translate for me, but his energy was enough to make me feel welcomed.

After we left the wedding, we visited a nearby gurdwara, a Sikh place of worship. Nobody questioned why I was there, despite my knowing nothing about the religion or its customs. Simran’s sister helped me secure a bandana on my head and direct me where to store my shoes before we entered the Darbar Sahib, the prayer hall. We approached the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture, and I copied the motions of those before me: saying a silent prayer, dropping a dollar in the golak, and touching my head to the ground. I then sat criss-crossed on the men’s side of the room for personal reflection.

I reflected on how grateful I was to be in a city surrounded by culture and by people who allowed me to learn about their way of life. I’m not used to being around people from different backgrounds who can walk around speaking different languages and wearing different clothing without being looked at sideways. Although I’ve only been here for a few days, I feel as if London has welcomed me with open arms, and it seems to have done the same for many others.

My Farewell to Paddington Arts By: Lauren Avila

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“Consider yourself at home

Consider yourself one of the family

We’ve taken to you so strong

It’s clear we’re going to get along…”

 

I’ve heard this song from the musical, “Oliver,” playing a few times here at Paddington Arts. It feels like an applicable theme song to sum up the wonderful adventure I’ve had in London as part of the Paddington Arts team. As my time with Paddington Arts comes to an end, I have found myself reflecting on what I have gained through this experience. I feel very fortunate to have been surrounded by warm and welcoming people from the very first moment I arrived. Everyday has been a learning opportunity. I learned about this wonderful organization that has been alive for more than four decades through all the pieces and people that are part of its foundation. I also learned by being immersed in the environment. There is joy that exudes from each person who walks about the building. They truly want to be here! They want to be part of the community in a meaningful way. I feel very lucky to have experienced this type of positive and passionate energy that is not often found in workplaces. I’ve learned directly from the people here, not only about their lives but about how to act. The entire team here has always been friendly and helpful to me but also to everyone else! Each interaction I have witnessed has shown me the character of each individual. I have cherished getting to know them through their professional qualities and through their personalities too. 

 

I have learned so much from the experiences I’ve had pursuing stories for the Blog. Every single blog I created has dozens of memories attached to them. The hours that I have spent learning about these topics, having first-hand experience with them, and sharing them with the Paddington Arts audience have truly been a privilege. As you may notice in the stories I created, I followed a theme involving art in its many forms. I believe there can never be enough appreciation for all the arts and I highly encourage you to participate where you can. Since I have joined the team, I find myself paying more attention than I ever have before to the artists and their work throughout London. 

 

I will miss being part of the team. During my time here I have become attached to the building, the neighborhood, and all the people who are part of it. I’ll also miss the sound of dancing feet, the voices that carry through the halls, and the bits of music that brighten the day, whether that’s the upbeat tunes accompanying the lessons or the singing that vocalizes from the heart of staff members going about their day.

 

During my time at Paddington Arts I have been a temporary resident in London and I have fallen in love with this city! I will always value the opportunities I’ve had to go out and explore different pockets of this magical place. I have never been to a location that had so much to offer in ways of food, entertainment, and general tourism. I have not had a bored moment since I have arrived and I doubt very much I would, even if I was here for a year. I must also note that the people really say so much about a place. I tend to be a rather inquisitive person and will start a conversation with anyone. As I have gone out and explored, be it for a story or not, I have found that the people here on the whole are very friendly, interesting, and good-spirited. Getting to know the locals has been one of my favorite parts of being here. 

 

To everyone who has joined me on this journey, including readers, participants, and most importantly the team here at Paddington Arts, I would like to thank you very much for our time together and all the memories I will carry with me for years to come.



Where to Find Undiscovered Talent in London By: Lauren Avila

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If you visit any tourist spot in London, or perhaps a busy tube station, you are sure to spot a busker putting their best foot forward. They want to be noticed, they want to share their talent, and they want you to help them do that. In any profession, it takes hard work, commitment, and confidence to know that you have what it takes to be successful. Busking is no different. 

 

Creative artists throughout London are making their dreams a reality simply by having the courage to show their talent. In the halls of the London Bridge tube station there is a one man band performing Caribbean music, a poet in Trafalgar Square sharing sonnets created on the spot, a magician in Leicester Square striving to amuse the public, an accordion player outside Warren Street tube station, and an acrobat in Covent Garden putting every ounce of physical effort into their performance. The list can go on and on with artists of all kinds, including the painter, the violinist, and the singer doing the same thing. They are pursuing their dream one stage at a time, regardless of where that stage is and who is watching. 

 

Of course, it isn’t always easy. 

 

There is still a big hurdle to have to overcome in order to get to the next step. It is important to not lose focus. There is a phrase that originated here in England, yet it is plastered on merchandise across the world: “Keep Calm & Carry On.” It is true that one must carry on despite hardships and challenges. Sometimes perseverance and commitment speaks even more than talent alone. 

 

Gathering all the courage one has and putting themself in the center of the public’s attention for the sake of a dream is not limited to the streets either.

 

At the Top Secret Comedy Club on Drury Lane, you can find comics who test their new material on an audience. I can hardly imagine many more terrifying tests to put yourself through. I recently saw two comics, Katie Green and Evaldas Karosas, doing this very experiment and were vulnerable enough to take feedback in real time. As it turns out, their reactions to our reactions were just as entertaining as their material. 

 

Suffice to say, it was an opportunity for growth which we can all use yet some are more afraid than others to put into practice. Bravo to those complete professionals who do!

Another example includes Zemphy, an Irish singer and guitarist, who used to busk on the streets of London. She now has a residency at Amazing Grace London where she puts on a show of 90’s & 00’s hits. 

 

There are artists who recently introduced their work and also sold their art during the Print Fair at Somerset House for a few days. They are making their dreams a reality while facing the public right in front of them. 

 

It goes without saying that success is subjective. I believe that success happens when a person goes from dreamer to doer, even if they never become a household name.

 

There are plenty of success stories in the London arts scene if you look for it. Go out and explore. It will not take long to find someone who could be the next Vincent Van Gogh or the next Ed Sheeran. 

 

Star Power in Theatre By: Lauren Avila

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Imagine the inside of a theatre. The room is hushed, the lights dim, and a show is about to begin. It is staged in the round, with little to no props and sets. The story is a profound and intriguing tale of a man who has lost the perfectly comfortable life he once knew for one that is uncertain and unsettling. The performers are playing to a sold out audience and bring their best efforts to the stage. This very scene can be experienced at the Bridge Theatre, where Jonathan Bailey of Bridgerton and Wicked fame is currently starring in Richard II to a packed house of 900. The average price of a ticket is £69.50. The premium ticket is well over a hundred pounds and the cheapest comes at low financial price of £29.50 but a much higher cost of view. However, would it surprise you that this same scene could have been found at the Finborough Theatre earlier in March while “The Passengers” played to approximately 50 people for £20. The difference? Perhaps the influence of star power. 

It is hardly a new idea to have a headliner bring in a crowd to entertainment. The concept has been around since the beginning of show business. Does it work?… Should it?

Perhaps. 

Whether a live show, a new film, or series television, there is always the possibility that the content is rubbish regardless of the celebrity status. People will still watch it to catch their favorite star. The tradition carries on with an influx of celebrity actors on stage. On Broadway in New York City, Denzel Washington, Jake Gyllenhaal, George Clooney, Kieran Culkin, Joey Fatone and Joe Jonas are entertaining crowds of fans. 

Here in London, a person can buy a ticket to see Jonathan Bailey, Ewan McGregor, Tom Hiddleston, Hailey Atwell, Brie Larson, John Lithgow, Cate Blanchet, Martin Freeman, Brian Cox, Rosamund Pike, Sean Hayes, and Rami Malek for current and upcoming shows. Ticket prices vary from moderate to reflective of celebrity status. But is it worth it?

Having seen both shows that were previously mentioned, I can’t help but wonder: is star power what sells a show?

Fortunately, “The Passenger” was a sold out show for its entire run in February and March. With an inescapably intimate theater, every seat is a premium seat, incapable of missing a performer’s blink. It’s wonderful to think that over the course of its run almost 2000 people got to experience this show, which was one of the very best productions I’ve seen in the many, many years I’ve been attending the theatre. “The Passenger” is about a Jewish German citizen who tries to hide from Nazis by riding trains across Germany. Personally, the show had me on the edge of my seat for the entirety of the 90 minute show, without an interval. It was made up of a cast of only five actors, led by the talented Robert Neumark Jones as Otto Silbermann. He is extraordinary and I can’t wait to see where his career goes next. 

“Richard II” is a classic play from William Shakespeare about the rise and fall of the King of England. The show’s run time is 2 hrs and 40 mins, including the 20 min interval. The interval provides a needed break from the marathon of words that are lavishing delivered off the tongues of capable actors but still relentlessly presented scene after scene. Nevertheless, I was quite moved by the monologues that exuded visceral emotion, particularly from lead actor, Jonathan Bailey. 

During the break at “Richard II,” I had a conversation with the patron seated beside me. It turns out that this play was the first time she had seen Jonathan Bailey in anything. What luck that I should find a person who came merely to watch a Shakespearean play. 

I asked what her thoughts were about the play so far. She felt that the actor playing Henry Bolingbroke was giving a stronger performance than the actor playing King Richard but noting Bailey’s credits she supposed that “he’s the big draw.”

So is it the celebrity that brings a patron to the stalls? Perhaps it’s the material. Perhaps it truly is both. If that is the case, can a great show stand on its own even without a big name? Must it work harder to garner an audience and win them over? 

On the other hand, is merely having a celebrity enough? Are they worth their weight in gold? 

I reached out to Time Out’s resident theatre critic, Andrzej Lukowski, to get his opinion on the matter. 

“I’d say celebrities are more likely to take on big demanding roles that (theoretically) show off what a good actor they are,” Lukowski said. “They don’t turn up, collect the paycheque and play a minor supporting part and let some unknown classic actors do the lion’s share.”

In other words, one can rely on the idea that if a celebrity joins a show, they are going to put on a performance of high caliber. Everyone on the cast and crew will certainly put their best foot forward too. If you plan to see a famous actor, you can feel confident that the production will likely be as premium as the price. Go ahead and nab that hot ticket (if you can). But remember that great things can be found in small packages. I strongly recommend venturing out to small venues and fringe theatre companies to find hidden gems!



Art Therapy- I tried it and you should too! By: Lauren Avila

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Art therapy can come in many forms through hands-on experience and engaging creativity, be that through performance or fine arts. There are individual and group sessions of art therapy widely available throughout London. It is a practice that is led by a trained professional with the intention to offer a safe environment to get in touch with feelings that may otherwise remain guarded. There is evidence to support that engaging in art therapy helps individuals to speak more freely and become more relaxed when facing an issue. 

Each individual is different and each person’s needs vary. Some people may need the guidance and healing that comes from a trained art therapist. However, that does not discount that art, in its many forms, is therapeutic on its own. 

The British Association of Art Therapists state on their website that “art therapy can help people of all ages and at all stages of life, including those whose life has been affected by difficult personal or cultural experiences, illness and/or disability. You do not need to be skilled in art to benefit from art therapy.”

That was the case when I put this theory to the test. I observed and participated in different types of art with groups of normal people from different backgrounds. 

 

First I went to Wonderland Ceramics to test if fine art really can help people with their mental health. The task? Choose a ceramic item and paint it in any way one wishes to. It turns out that art as therapy really is dependent from person to person. In a group of seven, a couple attendees felt stressed by this task. They found it difficult to choose an item, then choose how to decorate it, and also to efficiently do so. 

“I feel stressed because I’m a perfectionist, but I also feel relaxed because I know I can take my time,” Leyonce explained when asked how creating art made her feel.

Others found these steps less intimidating.

“I love this,” Skye said. “I’m so glad I decided to do this.”

Despite the rocky start, over the course of time the challenge became easier and the room’s temperament changed. People felt more at ease and the conversation in this group became more comfortable by each passing minute. As mentioned earlier, evidence supports that art can encourage a person to open up and share deeper thoughts and feelings.

“I was feeling stressed but I’m feeling a lot more relaxed now,” Gilly shared.

I challenged the theory again when attending a performing art event. The task? Have beginner and intermediate dancers try to teach and learn from each other. As an overall observation, this much larger group of about twenty attendees followed a similar pattern. About half the room was filled with timid beginners but by the end of the event there was a buoyancy in the room. Everyone’s spirits were lifted and the whole group bonded in conversation long after the event concluded. 

Speaking from personal experience from both activities, I felt relaxed, jubilant, care-free, and fulfilled while participating and immediately following each event. I can also say the same from other art forms such as writing stories and taking pictures. Again, this is different for each person but I believe it is safe to say that art as therapy is worth looking into. 

To find out more about the evidence behind art therapy, how it works, what types of therapy there are, and where to start looking for an art therapist, visit Mind. If you are local, consider looking up the classes and events that are offered here at Paddington Arts. 



Instagram-Worthy Spots near Paddington Arts By: Lauren Avila

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The Notting Hill Carnival, which is the largest street festival in Europe, will take place in August. With it, plenty of visitors from around the world will flood the area from near our location at Paddington Arts through Notting Hill. The festival is a boisterous event filled with music and local talent. However, throughout the area there is plenty to see. Whether you are coming for the festival or just visiting London, here are some wonderful places to visit to capture the pleasant aesthetics and adorable locals that will impress your social media followers.

Beginning with nearby Paddington Station, a railway and tube station. For Paddington Bear lovers, this is the very location where the fictional character first arrives in London. As such, there are a few tributes that you can take pictures of (and with), including a few statues, a bench, and a store. Paddington Bear can also be found in several other locations throughout London, including other statues and a mural. There are also locations nearby that were used for the  Paddington films such as Alice’s shop that stands in for Gruber’s Antiques. 

While on the subject of movies that we love, there is also nearby Notting Hill. There are photo spots for the Blue Door and The Travel Bookshop from the movie. Additionally, there are the Colorful Houses of Notting Hill that will sure to be your new favorite profile picture. They sit just off of Portobello Road which hosts a huge market that provides many photo opportunities. Though be sure to avoid taking pictures of merchandise. Vendor hosts often prefer that you do not photograph their supply. Still, with wall art throughout the market, the hustle and bustle of the people, and the general atmosphere, it’s a photographer’s paradise. 

Looking for some place calmer than a train station or a market? Look no further than Paddington Recreation Ground. It is a 27 acre park space that has a gym, running track, pitches for multiple sports, tennis courts, and a cafe. Located inside the park is a playground featuring miniature houses that are meant to replicate colorful houses in the area. This serves as a perfect cheat to capture the look within a scale that is easy to frame. 

Take a walk down to Little Venice which as the name implies has a similar ambience to Venice, Italy with its canal and little boats (as seen above). This area is a junction between Grand Union Canal and Regents Canal, with a nearby bridge close to Paddington Arts. It is a beautiful hidden gem that is a moving postcard to behold. Fun Fact: this area was also used for a scene in Paddington 2. 

Finally, there’s Paddington Arts itself. It is a beautiful building easily accessible by tube or bus, and offers opportunities for the community to engage in art forms. It is a colorful, three-level building that offers a welcoming environment. It is also a stone’s throw away from the real Windsor Gardens (not seen in the films) that Paddington Bear lives at with the Brown Family. 

Be sure to come visit the Paddington and Notting Hill area soon!