Introducing ARTHOUSE Meath - Gifts Made By Artists With Disabilities

Arthouse Meath is Postboxed's newest addition and our most exciting to date. They are made up of a collective of artists living with complex epilepsy and learning disabilities. The artists work alongside instructors to create artworks which are developed into designer products for sale. What is incredible is that 100% of Arthouse's sales revenue is used to sustain the enterprise, enabling it to expand and evolve. We are pleased to offer their soaps, chocolate bars and keyrings.

Founded by Becky Sheraidah in 2005 and based in Godalming, Surrey, ARTHOUSE Meath is now a thriving non-profit business Becky loves getting to know each artist's personality, way of working and refreshing outlook. Becky tells us that “They didn’t have much belief in themselves and their skills were not recognised, just because they needed 24-hour care. They were colouring in someone else’s drawing or sticking tissue on paper, all of which was thrown away at the end of the day. I felt we could easily make a change." 

“Each person’s unique style came with a fresh, raw, honest feel, a style which I knew mainstream artists were striving to achieve. I knew there was room for this work in the marketplace. I knew people would want it in their homes". 

The majority of ARTHOUSE Meath artists are residents of the Meath Epilepsy Trust, a charity offering housing and support services for people aged 19 and over living with severe epilepsy, learning and physical difficulties. In 2005, the Trust accepted Becky’s proposal and funded the foundation of ARTHOUSE Meath. 

Many of the artist’s verbal communication may be limited, so having the ability and opportunity to create artworks provides a source of communications that is not restrictive. The artworks produced tells the story of talent and skill, qualities that are sometimes overlooked in people living with disabilities. The artwork gives a voice to the artists saying ‘I can, I am!’.

Hear from the artists themselves:

 Art is therapeutic, I have always found it therapeutic and also love the tea that Matt makes on a Friday session. I love seeing my artwork being sold and it makes me very proud when someone buys it. I feel very independent when I come to ARTHOUSE as I can be creative.  Elanor Sinden

 I love it because I like coming up with ideas for cards. My favourite card design is my design crazy as a coconut as it makes me laugh. It makes me feel so good when I see my work being sold.  Karen Brown

I have a real passion for creating anything that involves making artwork. Whenever I have these ideas I’ll always have a go at creating them. I have always looked for similar people who have the same issues and it’s been great to meet and work with so many other similar people at ARTHOUSE. The best thing is someone going ‘WOW’ when they see it or hearing how much they love my work. Amy Sherratt 

Shop Arthouse Meath Here