Newark's SAA artists urge public to unite to build a Wall Of Positivity

With the country facing more weeks in lockdown, the UK’s largest artists’ community is aiming to lift the nation’s spirits by urging people to join forces to create a Wall Of Positivity.

The SAA, which is based in Newark, is challenging people of all ages and from all walks of life to paint or draw a picture of what makes them feel positive ­— and share it with a message to others.

They can submit their art for free, and all entries will be displayed in the virtual gallery on the SAA’s website.

The Wall Of Positivity follows the success of the SAA’s Paint A Poppy challenge in 2018 to mark the centenary of the end of the first world war, which attracted more than 10,500 submissions.

The SAA, which has 38,000 members and 1,500 local art clubs, said the lockdown was already inspiring people to rediscover the joys of art.

Its Ready Steady Paint children’s art service has seen a 300% increase in subscriptions in the past two weeks, while sales of art supplies are up by 70% on the same period last year.

As part of its campaign to get the nation painting, it is offering free access to video tutorials by artists and a series of free children’s activities.

Laura Sephton, membership manager, said that more than 200 entries had already been received, ranging from pictures of holiday spots and nature to pets and favourite rock stars, reflecting what people were thinking of to maintain morale during the lockdown.

Laura said: “Art has been at the centre of human societies for thousands of years and is known to be beneficial for our mental health.

“At a time when many are facing isolation, anxiety and grief, we are urging people to come together to create a Wall Of Positivity and lift the spirits of the nation.”