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A seasoned photographer is proving that photography is for everyone – while helping tackle loneliness and isolation.

Harry Williams, 78, has been teaching photography at Caerphilly Miners’ Centre as part of the centre’s visual arts course, which began in September with the aim of unleashing participants’ artistic skills.

Now, 15 photographs from the course are proudly on display at the Miners’ Centre. The exhibition was officially unveiled last month by Senedd Member Delyth Jewell and Miners Centre chair Jeff Cuthbert, who previously represented Caerphilly in Cardiff Bay.

The project also seeks to support mental health following the untimely passing of miners centre member Belinda Snow, and Caerphilly Senedd Member Hefin David, last summer.

‘A part of something’

Former Miners Centre chair Katherine Hughes, who takes part in the sessions, said: “There’s a lot of evidence about the improvements that visual arts can have on people’s mental health, both in terms of actually creating the art, but also looking at other people’s art.

“It makes people more relaxed, it reduces their stress, and it makes them feel that they’re a part of something.

“It’s really important because it’s part of our role in the Miners to improve people’s feeling and sense of wellbeing, and make them feel part of a better world.

“And as you can see from all the pictures, there’s a lot of being outside, being in the open, being in lovely surroundings – and it does really make you feel a lot better.”

Sharing expertise

Speaking of his involvement, Harry said he feels “very privileged to be in a position to give something back to the arts sector.”

He explained: “Seeing a creative concept come to fruition as a finished piece of art, be it a drawing, painting, design, or photographic image, can result in a great sense of accomplishment.

“When the concept of an integrated art and photography group was first mooted, I felt it was an exciting and progressive idea, which would combine professional expertise from various disciplines across the arts world.

“Thanks to the efforts and professional skills of our dedicated art tutors, the group has very successfully integrated a wide range of creative skills.”

‘Don’t doubt your ability’

Discussing the benefits of the group, Harry said: “Joining like-minded people via the Miners visual arts group enables participants to explore their latent creative talent, and helps them observe the world around them with a more clinical and analytical eye.

“Interaction within the group sessions and via the Miners WhatsApp portal helps to counteract loneliness and feelings of isolation. It promotes feelings of positive self-worth through creation of imagery and guided by a team of professional tutors who support participants every step of the way.

Giving advice to anyone thinking about joining the group, he said: “Don’t doubt your ability, you don’t need expensive equipment, and don’t be afraid of failure.”