Rachael Howard spent 10 weeks delivering print making workshops to children and young people on the surgical and oncology wards at the Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in early 2019. Particiants were able to experiment with screen printing techniques and produced a variety of items, including bags and flags.
Rachael’s main aim during workshops is to make participants feel welcome and relaxed enough to have a go at a new skill. She works in a variety of media from screen printing to applique, and adapts different textile and drawing approaches depending on the ability of the participants, the environment and the time scale.
“I’ve never tried screen printing before and the lady helped me. I could do it even though it hurt because it was exciting!”
“Really good to find out how screen printing works. It was really good progressing through the lesson, flags, bags and more. We have now got a kit for home.”
– Participants at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital
“[He] really loved his bag making and getting messy. It took his mind off the pain and made him forget where he was for a short time. Art is a great way to feel better and involved.”
– Parent of participant