Shorelark.org is a non-profit delivering creative workshops in the communities of East Lothian and Edinburgh.

Our workshops are designed to support well-being through mindful art, creative writing, and movement.

We believe everybody should have access to creative experiences, and we strive to bridge the gaps of cultural, economic and health barriers that might inhibit people from attending.

Our workshops encourage the many mental and physical benefits of mindful art and Hatha yoga, and we take pride in strengthening intergenerational, inclusive and diverse social connections in the community. 

Shorelark Arts CIC

We make creativity in the community accessible to all, offering a programme of free art, yoga and creative writing workshops for children and families in East Lothian. 

Our accessible, mindful, creative sessions support well-being, encourage confidence and foster intergenerational connection.

We remove cultural, economic and health barriers by providing fully funded places, materials, flexible scheduling (school/holiday sessions), and online workshops/materials.

Since 2024, we’ve expanded to support disabled children and adults with wheelchair access and neurodiversity-affirming sessions.

Recognising the arts' impact on mental health, our inclusive approach provides a welcoming, stress-free, sensory and communication-supporting community studio space.

Our workshops use the Be Still Gentle Kind framework. This unique approach enables participants to harness creativity to release negative thoughts and inspire positive emotions.

The workshops provide a welcoming space for a diverse audience and promote a mindful approach to exploring creativity, painting, and drawing without judgement.

There is no obligation to meet an end goal; instead, a sense of fulfilment comes from the process of creating.

The sessions are accessible to all, with no prior artistic or creative skills or experience required.

About Kat Healy (Founder & Artistic Director)

Scottish multi-disciplined artist Kat Healy founded Shorelark Arts CIC in 2023 after building a thriving creative network in East Lothian and Edinburgh, hosting monthly art workshops in local community spaces since 2020.

Kat has 20 years of experience in the arts, including as a fine artist and touring musician. Kat earned a Distinction in her Master's in Creative Writing.

Having lost both parents to alcohol addiction in her early adulthood, Kat's expertise and lived experience help individuals of all skill levels embrace creativity for well-being. Kat has built a strong reputation in community teaching, blending empathy and encouragement in every class to ensure Shorelark Studio is an inclusive, empowering space for all participants.

I enjoy a multi-disciplined approach to my art and creative practice and the intersection of each process. I am inspired by the natural world, folklore and mythology. I advocate creative practice as a pathway to well-being. I am passionate about holding space for people to explore their creativity in an accessible, respectful, supportive environment.

The Shorelark Board of Directors provide a blend of strategic, operational, and financial expertise and overall support and guidance.

We can deliver a variety of accessible, relaxing art workshops in the community and the workplace.

How does it work?

Our workshop setup is mobile, which allows us to travel to different community spaces, such as village and kirk halls and clubs. We can also set it up in your workplace.

Our only requirement is that there is access to water. This allows us to use water-based (non-toxic) mediums and to clean up safely afterwards.

We provide all the materials, so you don't need to worry about equipment.

Each session is designed to suit absolute beginners and experienced painters alike. We provide accessible supporting materials, such as painting guides and reference sheets. 

• Introduction to Watercolour & Texture
• Watercolour & Mixed Media
• Land & Seascapes: Paint Yourself Calm
• Stretch & Sketch
• Blooming Marvellous: Atmospheric Flowers (seasonal)
• Paint the Seasons: Semi-abstract Shrubs, Berries & Trees 

Well-being in the Workplace Workshops

Workplace Well-being and Team Away Day Sessions:

We are passionate about utilising creativity to promote well-being and team-building in the workplace. We can deliver a bespoke session to suit the needs of your organisation. The sessions can be centred around a specific theme, including company values and aspirations.

We can also prepare individual creative packs for each team member to enjoy at home.

Our Workplace Well-being sessions are designed to:

• Support staff well-being
• Reduce stress
• Boost morale
• Improve team working (compilation project) 

Contact us, and we'll be happy to support you in creating a bespoke workshop for your community hall or workplace.