Local sculptor helps learning disabled adults develop their creativity

SCULPTOR and designer Jasna Sadic is using her professional and personal experience to teach arts and crafts classes at Hft’s Barnet supported living service, providing learning disabled adults with a valuable opportunity to express themselves.

Jasna has been running arts and crafts sessions at the learning disability charity’s service since 2021. As a qualified stonemason, sculptor and designer, she thought this voluntary position would be well-suited to her and would put her in a good position to help others develop their own sense of creativity.

Jasna is also a mother and full-time carer to her son who has a learning disability. She thought this would also make this role a good fit for her.

She said:

“As the parent of a child with a learning disability, I felt this was the perfect position for me to make a difference with my knowledge of both the arts and special education needs.”

Each week, the class focuses on a new art topic, often relating to upcoming events and occasions, and incorporating inclusivity as much as possible.

Earlier this year, one of the group’s projects was to make bunting to celebrate King Charles’ Coronation. Using various patterns and accessories, they decorated each triangular flag to suit the royal occasion.

Jasna added:

“It was the perfect way for the people we support to get involved in the Coronation celebrations and brighten up their living space.”

Creative activities have proven benefits for learning disabled people, such as helping to focus the mind, enabling individuals to express their feelings, and often providing greater community inclusion depending on the chosen activity.

Recently, the class has been joined by one more volunteer to provide additional support to up to eight attendees.

Jasna concluded:

“Running the arts and crafts sessions with Hft has been an invaluable experience. It’s a great opportunity to engage with learning disabled adults and teach them something new.”

If you are interested in volunteering with Hft, visit its website.