MESS ROOM GROUPS

Facilitating groups sessions for people from all walks of life, working especially with those with sight loss

Nearly 20 years ago, Wendy Daws began volunteering with the Kent Association for the Blind (KAB), which led to the creation of The MESS ROOM art groups. Since then, the initiative has grown steadily. It began with the KAB Medway Art Group in 2006, followed by KAB Gravesend in 2015. Soon after, Canterbury’s Sensing Culture Group launched in 2016 in partnership with The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge. More recently, KAB Bromley and Tunbridge Wells Sensing Culture Group joined the network through a collaboration with The Amelia Scott. Meanwhile, Peer Arts has been running successfully since 2017.

As a result, these welcoming and inclusive groups bring together people of all abilities across Medway and Kent. They offer a space where creativity, social connection, and self-expression thrive. Whether participants collaborate on projects or simply enjoy the process, each session remains accessible, engaging, and empowering.

Furthermore, our skilled facilitators specialize in working with individuals with sight loss, dementia, learning disabilities, and various access needs. They create an encouraging environment where creativity has no barriers. Consequently, participants feel supported as they explore their artistic potential in ways that suit them best.

At MESS ROOM, we fully embrace mess, creativity, and community. Most importantly, we ensure that art remains accessible to everyone - regardless of age, ability, or background.

“I feel so happy right now, I’ve had such a great morning in the MESS ROOM, I always feel so inspired hearing about everyone’s ideas. This is my favourite part of the week, making art and being with friends!”Peer Arts Particpant

“Oh, I have had a wonderful morning! So much help and kindness, it's just lovely - it's really lovely. We got so much done”KAB art group participant

SWIPE

PEER ARTS MEDWAY

Peer Arts Group meets weekly at the MESS ROOM in Chatham for our artist-led, open-access sessions. By intentionally keeping the group small, we maintain a peaceful, focused environment that sparks creativity and fosters meaningful connections.

As a peer-led group, Peer Arts thrives on mutual support and collaboration. Additionally, our members enjoy the flexibility to work on personal projects, prepare for group exhibitions, or simply take time to create and connect with others. If you prefer a quieter experience, you can easily immerse yourself in your own world, headphones on, and soak in the creative energy around you.

Furthermore, the atmosphere in our art group remains relaxed and welcoming, offering a space that adapts to your needs, whether you're experiencing memory loss, dementia, or learning difficulties. Whether you choose to collaborate with others, focus on personal work, or simply enjoy the moment, Peer Arts provides a comfortable and supportive setting for all. No matter how you engage, we design the sessions to inspire and support your creative journey. Ultimately, we believe Peer Arts serves as a space where people can express themselves freely, and creativity flows naturally for everyone.

£10 subs per session includes plenty of the vitals: tea, coffee and biscuits.

"This art group is everything to me. I need people and this group helps me be myself. I'm so grateful I belong to such a group as I get inspiration from everyone. The interaction with such inspiring people keeps me buoyant."Peer Arts Participant

WHEN:

Thursdays
10:00am to 1:00pm

WHERE:

MESS ROOM
Sun Pier House
(Ground Floor)
Medway Street, Chatham,
Kent ME4 4HF

KAB BROMLEY

Launched in 2024, KAB Bromley Art Group meets monthly in the Community House for artist-led sessions for visually impaired people, purposefully kept small to allow for a quiet space.

Creativity flows in many ways at in this group. Some come to paint, draw, or sculpt. Others come to listen, reflect, and be part of a shared creative energy. However you choose to spend your time—working on your own projects, preparing for a show, or simply unwinding with like-minded people—this is your space to create and connect in your own way

New faces and guide dogs are always welcome.

FREE to attend includes plenty of the vitals: tea, coffee and biscuits.

To find out more get in touch with us at the MESS ROOM or the Kent Association for the Blind
or call: 0208 464 8406

"It's great to be back, I've missed chatting with people and sharing ideas. I'm surprised how good my art looks and feels, I'm really surprised and feel very pleased with what I've done so far."KAB Bromley Participant

WHEN:

Monthly
Tuesdays 10.30am to 12.30pm

WHERE:

Community House
South Street, Bromley,
Kent BR1 1RH

KAB MEDWAY ART GROUP

Launched in 2006, the KAB Medway Art Group, affectionately known as "Team Biscuits," meets fortnightly in the MESS ROOM for artist-led sessions specifically designed for visually impaired individuals. The group has intentionally kept its size small to ensure a peaceful, focused space where creativity can thrive without distractions.

At KAB Medway Art Group, artists with sight loss come together in a supportive and friendly environment, where they can inspire and encourage one another. Whether you're working on personal projects, preparing for a group exhibition, or simply enjoying some time for quiet creativity, the group offers a welcoming atmosphere where you can engage at your own pace. The sessions are designed to allow for a flexible experience—whether you prefer to chat with fellow artists, immerse yourself in the creative process, or simply enjoy the calming environment with headphones on, it’s entirely up to you.

The group provides a space where participants are free to express themselves however they wish, with no pressure to perform. It’s all about enjoying the moment and making art in a way that feels most comfortable. KAB Medway Art Group is a place where everyone is valued, and each session offers the opportunity to connect, create, and find inspiration in the company of others.

£8 subs per session includes plenty of the vitals: tea, coffee and biscuits.

To find out more get in touch with us at the MESS ROOM or the Kent Association for the Blind
or call: 01634 332929

“Being part of the art group is wonderful and calming, it gives me so much joy. We’ve all got eyesight challenges and it’s great to express myself with others in similar situations, we help each other and have a laugh at the same time.” KAB Medway Participant

3 people with sigh loss standing in the crypt of Rochester Cathedral

WHEN:

Fortnightly
Wednesdays 10:00am to 12.30pm

WHERE:

MESS ROOM
Sun Pier House
(Ground Floor)
Medway Street, Chatham,
Kent ME4 4HF

KAB GRAVESEND

Launched in 2015, the KAB Gravesend Art Group has been meeting fortnightly at the St. Georges Art Centre for engaging, artist-led sessions. The group offers a unique opportunity for artists with sight loss to come together, fostering creativity, connection, and inspiration in a supportive environment.

At KAB Gravesend, members are encouraged to work at their own pace, whether independently or collaboratively. The sessions cater to a variety of creative pursuits, from working on personal projects to collaborating on group exhibitions. Additionally, participants can take part in mindful creative sessions that focus on enjoying the process of making art, with no pressure to create a finished piece. Whether you’re actively working or simply soaking in the vibrant, creative atmosphere, the group is designed to allow each person to engage in the way that feels most comfortable.

The KAB Gravesend Art Group prides itself on offering a welcoming and inclusive space. New faces are always encouraged, and guide dogs are more than welcome. The group thrives on its sense of community, where art and friendship naturally flourish. Whether you are an experienced artist or just looking to explore creativity in a relaxed, supportive setting, the group provides a space for everyone. Here, members are free to take part as much or as little as they like, making it a truly flexible and open environment for creative expression.

£7 subs per session includes plenty of the vitals: tea, coffee and biscuits.

To find out more get in touch with us at the MESS ROOM or the Kent Association for the Blind
or call: 01622 358995

"This is the best group in the world. It's such an amazing group of people here with such a wealth of knowledge and different expertise"KAB Gravesend Participant

WHEN:

Fortnightly (term time)
Mondays 10.30am to 12.30pm

WHERE:

St George's Art Centre
St George's Shopping Centre
Bath Street, Gravesend,
Kent DA11 0TA

KAB TUNBRIDGE WELLS | Sensing Culture

In 2025, the Sensing Culture group was launched in partnership with the Amelia Scott in Tunbridge Wells. Meeting on the last Friday of every month, the group gathers for two-hour sessions designed to encourage creativity, connection, and support for artists with sight loss.

If you're seeking a space to create freely, surrounded by understanding and encouragement, the Sensing Culture Art Group in Tunbridge Wells is the perfect place for you. The group brings together individuals with sight loss in a relaxed, welcoming environment where everyone can feel comfortable expressing their creativity. Whether you're working at your own pace, preparing for upcoming exhibitions, or simply enjoying the company of other like-minded creatives, there is always room for you. The group offers a flexible atmosphere, where you can choose to chat, collaborate, or immerse yourself in a quiet, reflective space as you create.

The Sensing Culture Art Group is committed to inclusivity and openness. New faces are always warmly welcomed, and guide dogs are an important part of the community. With its focus on support and mutual respect, the group ensures that every participant feels valued. Whether you're an experienced artist or just beginning to explore your creativity, this group provides a supportive space where you can grow, share ideas, and make meaningful connections.

FREE to attend - includes plenty of the vitals: tea, coffee and biscuits.

To find out more get in touch with us at the MESS ROOM or the Kent Association for the Blind
or call: 01622 358995

“The group are a highly important part of The Beaney's community, feeding into our programming through not only displaying their artwork in the galleries but working with staff to co-design audio descriptions informed by their lived experience. The Sensing Culture group speak highly of the activities and positive sense of belonging coming to the group at the museum.”Leanne Macdonald, Beaney Health and Wellbeing Programme Coordinator, The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge

WHEN:

Third Friday of every month
10.30am to 12.30pm

WHERE:

The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge
18 High Street, Canterbury,
Kent CT1 2RA

KAB Tunbridge Wells | Sensing Culture

In 2025, the Sensing Culture group was launched in partnership with the Amelia Scott in Tunbridge Wells. Meeting on the last Friday of every month, the group gathers for two-hour sessions designed to encourage creativity, connection, and support for artists with sight loss.

If you're seeking a space to create freely, surrounded by understanding and encouragement, the Sensing Culture Art Group in Tunbridge Wells is the perfect place for you. The group brings together individuals with sight loss in a relaxed, welcoming environment where everyone can feel comfortable expressing their creativity. Whether you're working at your own pace, preparing for upcoming exhibitions, or simply enjoying the company of other like-minded creatives, there is always room for you. The group offers a flexible atmosphere, where you can choose to chat, collaborate, or immerse yourself in a quiet, reflective space as you create.

The Sensing Culture Art Group is committed to inclusivity and openness. New faces are always warmly welcomed, and guide dogs are an important part of the community. With its focus on support and mutual respect, the group ensures that every participant feels valued. Whether you're an experienced artist or just beginning to explore your creativity, this group provides a supportive space where you can grow, share ideas, and make meaningful connections.

FREE to attend - includes plenty of the vitals: tea, coffee and biscuits.

To find out more get in touch with us at the MESS ROOM or the Kent Association for the Blind
or call: 01622 358995

"I'm always learning something new. I have to say it again, I never thought I'd ever be doing anything like this."KAB Tunbridge Wells Participant

WHEN:

Last Friday of every month
10.30am to 12.30pm

WHERE:

The Amelia Scott
Mount Pleasant Road
Royal Tunbridge Wells
Kent TN1 1AW

In Partnership with Kent Association for the Blind

Visit KAB Website