Battling On and Winning Steps South West joined forces in October and November. The purpose was to invite Andy from West Devon Art Workshops down to South Hill Parish Hall for a series of eight art sessions. How did it go? Short answer: Spiffingly. Long answer: The eight-session workshop was split into halves, the first four tackling modroc sculptures, and the second abstract painting. Andy encouraged attendees to join each session, to take full advantage of the artistic journey we'd be voyaging on. With the odd exception here and there, the cohort remained intact throughout the workshop and developed a strong group dynamic. By the end, it was like a big group of friends.

 Andy, the instructor throughout, was patient and professional. While he always remained in control of the art aspect of the sessions, he never came became a stereotypically, stand-off-ish teacher. He was involved in the banter and provided assistance where wanted. A grand show!

 As for the art itself... The modroc sculpturing was a novel concept to the attendees, but Andy was able to turn some absolute beginners into people who had at least SOME idea of what was going on. The sculptures produced were far beyond anybody's initial expectations, which goes to show how invested they became. I created a sumo wrestler - because of course - and even though it looked more like a Christmas Turkey, I was still surprised at how well it came out. 

The latter four sessions were a little more familiar, starting with abstract watercolours and then bringing in the acrylics and a real divergence of styles among the attendees. The most important lesson Andy taught the group revolved (pun-intended) and the colour wheel - mixing and creating colours. Something that, on its face, seems easy and obvious, but in reality is far more challenging. 

 In the end, the group came away with a splendid array of artpieces and sculptures that they can be rightly proud of.

 But is that really the end? No. There will be an exhibition in Callington Library in January, where all their works will be on show, along with (potentially) some other pieces. The date is yet to be confirmed. If you're interested, keep a close eye on our social media pages to find out more when the info becomes available.

 A massive thank you to Andy, the West Devon Art Workshops, South Hill and Parish Hall, and all the attendees who made the eight sessions so marvellous!

The FRESH START project will be holding two more in-person sessions at Sir Robert Geffery Memorial Hall, Landrake, this year. They will take place Nov 25th and Dec 9th, hours 10am till 1pm.

We hope to see partners and spouses of military personnel come along to meet us at the hall! If you're looking for a social morning, or are seeking advice regarding financial, familial or work issues, please don't hesitate to visit!

Refreshments will be available.

The wider Merryhue family came together on Thursday 7th November to hold a small Remembrance service outside the countryside hub. We were joined by the Veterans, some of their families, TST staff and students to remember those who gave their lives so that we may live ours today.

Father Michael Brown delivered a service before an unknown soldier. He also said a prayer before a new tree, planted in memory of two Veterans who sadly passed away over the last year: Gordon Shelley and Ian Murphy. Bouquets were laid in their honour.

We extend our greatest thanks to Father Brown for leading the services.

Afterwards, the veterans sat down for a delicious stew, made by our good friends Les and Cassie! Many thanks for the grand work!

Lest we forget.

We have a FREE 8-week art course on the horizon, provided by the West Devon Arts Projects! Relevant info is in the attached image...

If you're a creative type, then this could be a great opportunity to learn new techniques and open new pathways of inspiration! Of course, refreshments will be provided.

If you're interested in getting involved, please let us know ASAP by...

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 01579 384 798

Another weekend at Boconnoc: DONE.

Battling On were permitted a stall at this year's Boconnoc Steam Rally, and it was another enjoyable event! This year, thankfully, it wasn't quite so wet.

There are many people to thank, so here goes...

Debbie Rideout, for allowing us the opportunity. Wishing you a speedy recovery with your leg! Hope to see you again next year.

James and Laura Locke, owners of the incredible steam engine WARSPITE. You were so kind to allow us to ride along on Sunday and create some amazing memories.

The volunteers who helped out during the weekend. Your support was vital in keeping up both morale and energy levels.

And finally, a hearty BZ to the tireless trio - Sean, Wayne and Lewis - who stuck it out for the whole weekend. Your efforts have been immeasurable, and I can't thank you enough!