Lisa and Louise, co-founders of Open Arms Artists’ Collective

Lisa and Louise, co-founders of Open Arms Artists’ Collective

Our core team is based in Cheltenham with associate team mates in Gloucestershire and neighbouring counties. 

We all share an interest in piloting inventive, new approaches to engaging with older people and fundamentally believe in the power of the arts in improving the quality of older people’s lives. Our backgrounds as artists complement each other - in dance, theatre, visual arts, poetry and music. We thrive from collaborating together. 

Integral to our approach is:

  • being person-centred and participant-led

  • nurturing physical and mental well-being

  • facilitating with compassion and empathy

  • encouraging individual expression, empowerment, choice and independence

  • stimulating the imagination and taking risks

  • promoting togetherness, participation, inclusivity and equality

  • providing enjoyment and plenty of opportunities for laughter and social interaction

If you are interested in collaborating with us, or simply have an idea you would like to explore, we would love to hear from you.

  • Louise

    CO-FOUNDER

  • Lisa

    CO-FOUNDER

  • Claire

    ASSOCIATE ARTIST

  • Lydia

    ASSOCIATE ARTIST

  • Marie-Lou

    ASSOCIATE ARTIST

  • Fiona

    ASSOCIATE ARTIST

  • Gemma Bolwell

    ASSOCIATE ARTIST

  • Ally Goff

    ASSOCIATE ARTIST

Other groups and organisations we are part of.

This year, we initiated an artist peer network for those interested in working creatively with older people in Gloucestershire. Do let us know if you want to join us in future discussions. 

We regularly attend the Active Ageing network with Active Gloucestershire, GRCC’s Know Your Patch in Cheltenham, are members of Cheltenham Dementia Action Alliance, Create Gloucestershire and Arts and Health South West.

We are Dementia Friends and have completed NCFE level 2 Certificate in the Principles of Dementia Care.

People we are nourished and inspired by 

Mindsong, Wyldwood Arts, Art Shape, Artspace Cinderford, The Company of Elders National Theatre Network (Manchester Royal Exchange, Belgrade Theatre, Southwark Playhouse, Leeds Playhouse, New Vic Theatre, Entelechy Arts) The Elderflowers (Hearts & Minds), Midlands Arts Centre, Spare Tyre, Vamos Theatre, Small Things Creative Projects.