My beginner -friendly art classes are designed especially for those with little or no experience. In a relaxed and supportive space, I’ll gently guide you step by step, helping you build confidence, explore colour, and enjoy the calming benefits of creativity. This isn’t about being perfect - it’s about showing down, expressing yourself, and discovering the joy of painting. No experience needed. Just come as you are 💛` *Paints, brushes, canvas, design for the day included in a price*

Unleash your inner artist at our Paint Party! 🎨 No experience needed—I provide the canvas, paints, and friendly step-by-step help. All YOU do is pick a design and show up ready for fun! Perfect for a fun evening with family , or some joyful "me time." DM me for all the details and to grab your spot—let’s make some art together! David Lloyd Gym, Kingswood, Hull. #BeverlyEastRiding #BeverlyEastArt #YorkRegionEvents #LocalPaintParty #PaintAndSip #CreativeNightOut #BeverlyEastCommunity #TrySomethingNew #NoExperienceNeeded

As a mother, I often think about how much time children spend in front of screens today. Phones, tablets, consoles, and endless scrolling seem to be part of everyday life. While technology certainly has its place, I strongly believe that some of the most meaningful family moments happen when we step away from screens and spend time creating something together. Recently, we visited the barber for a quick haircut for my son. During the usual friendly chat, the barber asked him, “So, what games are you playing on your Xbox?”  and then followed with, “Or what games are you playing on your phone?” My son simply replied, “None. I don’t have an Xbox and no games on my phone.” For a moment, there was a small pause of surprise. It reminded me how unusual that answer has become these days. Don’t get me wrong — we do use technology at home. We watch TV together and enjoy playing on our Nintendo Switch. But we also make a conscious effort to balance that time with screen-free family activities . In our home, you will often find us playing chess, enjoying board games, colouring, drawing, or painting together around the table. Those simple moments are some of the ones I treasure most. Creative activities bring families together in a different way. They slow things down. Conversations happen naturally. Children feel proud of what they create, and parents get to take part in the imagination rather than watching from the side. Over time, I’ve discovered that the most enjoyable screen-free family time  often comes from the simplest ideas. Family enjoying a board game together Painting Together as a Family Painting is one of our favourite ways to spend time together. You don’t need to be an artist or have any special skills. A few paints, brushes, and paper are enough to begin. Sometimes we paint flowers, sometimes landscapes, and sometimes completely abstract pictures full of colour. The beauty of painting with children is that there are no rules — only creativity and fun. Painting together encourages imagination and builds confidence in children. It also allows parents to relax and enjoy a creative moment alongside their kids. Colouring and Drawing Colouring and drawing are wonderful screen-free activities for kids . They are simple, calming, and surprisingly good at bringing the whole family together. After a busy day, sitting down with colouring pencils or markers can create a peaceful moment where everyone relaxes. Often, this is when children begin chatting about their day or sharing their ideas. It becomes a quiet moment of connection. Board Games and Card Games Classic board games like Scrabble , Monopoly , or Ticket to Ride offer hours of fun and friendly competition. Card games such as Uno , Go Fish , Skyjo , Trump game cards or Rummy are easy to learn and perfect for all ages. Tips for success: Choose games that match your family’s interests and ages Set a regular game night to build anticipation Encourage teamwork with cooperative games like Pandemic or Forbidden Island Cooking and Baking Together Preparing meals as a family can be a creative and educational experience. Kids learn about ingredients, measurements, and teamwork while enjoying the tasty results. Ideas to try: Make homemade pizzas with personalised toppings Bake cookies or cupcakes and decorate them Prepare a themed dinner from a different culture Cooking together creates a natural space for conversation and laughter. Arts and Crafts Projects Crafting sparks creativity and allows family members to express themselves. Gather supplies like paper, glue, markers, and recycled materials for endless possibilities. Project ideas: Create personalised greeting cards for upcoming birthdays or holidays Build a family scrapbook with photos and mementoes Try simple DIY projects like friendship bracelets or painted rocks Display finished projects around the house to celebrate everyone’s efforts. Outdoor Activities That Bring Everyone Closer Spending time outside offers fresh air, exercise, and new adventures. These activities encourage movement and exploration without screens. Nature Walks and Scavenger Hunts Explore local parks, trails, or your own backyard with a nature walk. Turn it into a scavenger hunt by making a list of things to find, such as pinecones, feathers, or certain flowers. Benefits include: Learning about plants, animals, and ecosystems. Fun to have a mini microscope or binocular on hand. Encouraging observation and curiosity Providing gentle exercise for all ages Gardening as a Family Starting a garden together teaches patience and responsibility. Whether it’s a few pots on a balcony or a backyard plot, growing flowers, herbs, or vegetables is rewarding. Gardening tips: Choose easy-to-grow plants like sunflowers or cherry tomatoes Assign age-appropriate tasks to each family member Celebrate harvest time with a family meal featuring homegrown produce Outdoor Sports and Games Physical activity is essential for health and mood. I'm not amazing at it, but I'll try it, of course. Try simple games that everyone can join, such as: Love a bit of Frisbee or catch, cricket bat and ball catch. Basketball rings are pretty much part of the playground these days. We do paddleboarding in the summer. These activities build teamwork and keep energy levels high. Creating Creative Family Time in Beverley and Hull Living in the Beverley and Hull area , I’ve also seen how much families enjoy coming together for creative activities outside the home. When parents and children sit down to paint in a relaxed and welcoming environment, something lovely happens. Families laugh together, children proudly show their artwork, and everyone leaves with something they created themselves. Whether it happens around the kitchen table or in a local family painting class in Beverley or Hull , the goal is the same — to slow down, step away from screens, and enjoy creativity together. Final Thoughts That small moment at the barber's reminded me how easily screens can become the default form of entertainment for children today. But families still have the power to choose something different. Sometimes the best memories come from the simplest things — a paintbrush, a board game, a pencil, or a shared idea around the table. And in those creative moments, families connect, laugh, and create something far more valuable than screen time: memories together .

Welcome to Happy Polka Art  💛Hello, I’m Sylwia — the founder of Happy Polka Art 🎨 Happy Polka Art was born from my belief that creativity can heal, connect, and rebuild confidence. Today, I run art classes and creative wellbeing workshops in Beverley, Hull, and across the East Riding of Yorkshire, helping individuals and families experience the calming, joyful power of painting. Why Face-to-Face Community Matters We live in a world where we can message instantly, scroll endlessly, and stay “connected” online — and yet so many of us feel alone. There is something deeply healing about meeting in person. Sitting around a table. Sharing a laugh and talking over a cup of tea while the paint dries. When we gather face-to-face: We feel seen and heard. We experience belonging. Our stress levels reduce. Our mood lifts naturally. Human connection lowers anxiety, supports mental health, and even benefits our immune system. Community is not just social — it’s essential for wellbeing. Creativity Makes Connection Easier Art has a beautiful way of bringing people together without pressure. You don’t need to be outgoing. You don’t need to be “talented.”You don’t need the right words. When we paint together, conversation flows gently. Silence feels comfortable. Everyone is simply exploring colour and expression side by side. I’ve seen strangers walk into a class feeling nervous — and leave smiling, chatting, and lighter than when they arrived. That shift is powerful. Beginner Art: My Creative Journey Before founding Happy Polka Art, I worked for many years as a professional hair and makeup artist in London’s West End theatre district and in film and television. Creating intricate character looks and wigs taught me something powerful — art transforms. It tells stories. It shifts emotions. It builds confidence. Through my own life experiences, I discovered how painting and creative play can bring calm during difficult times. That discovery became the heart of Happy Polka Art. Now, I channel that same creative energy into something deeply personal: using art for wellbeing, stress relief, and self-expression within our local community. Beginner Art Painting Class – Beverley & Hull Have you always wanted to try painting but felt unsure where to start? My beginner-friendly art classes are designed especially for those with little or no experience. In a relaxed and supportive space, I’ll gently guide you step by step, helping you build confidence, explore colour, and enjoy the calming benefits of creativity. This isn’t about being perfect — it’s about slowing down, expressing yourself, and discovering the joy of painting. No experience needed. Just come as you are 💛 What I Offer At Happy Polka Art, I host: Beginner-friendly painting classes Family “paint together” workshops Creative wellbeing sessions for adults Children’s art workshops Seasonal and themed community art events All classes are relaxed, welcoming, and pressure-free. You don’t need experience — just curiosity. If you’re in Beverley, Hull, or the East Riding and feel ready to try something new, I would love to welcome you. Community begins with one small step — sometimes simply walking through the door. You can find some classes here at HappyPolka-Art

The therapeutic effects of creative activities stem from a combination of both g and a negative mental engagement, emotional expression, and physical action. Psychological and Emotional Advantages Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Engaging in creative activities such as knitting or colouring can induce a meditative and soothing effect. This helps to decrease the stress hormone cortisol. Dopamine Boost: Completing a project gives a sense of achievement. This triggers dopamine release in the brain, enhancing feelings of happiness. Boosted Self-Esteem: Creating something tangible and personal affirms the distinctiveness of your ideas and boosts your confidence. Improved Mindfulness: Concentrating on the craft helps keep your mind in the present. This provides a respite from overthinking and intrusive thoughts. Emotional Expression: Art provides a non-verbal way for individuals who find it difficult to articulate their feelings. It allows exploration and processing of complex emotions. Social Perks: Connection and Community: Getting involved in a workshop or craft group is a great way to make friends. This combats loneliness, which is crucial for mental health. Shared Purpose: Social crafting groups foster connection and support, especially for those dealing with social anxiety. Art Therapy vs. Creative Hobbies Both have their perks, but it's key to know the difference between just crafting for fun and doing formal art therapy: Creative Hobbies offer personal growth and help alleviate stress. Engaging in activities such as painting, knitting, or journaling doesn't require artistic talent to enjoy their benefits. Art Therapy is an acknowledged type of psychotherapy led by a qualified professional. It employs the creative process to assist individuals in exploring emotions, addressing particular mental health issues such as depression and PTSD, and enhancing self-awareness. Getting Started with Arts and Crafts You don't have to be a pro to enjoy the perks of doing something creative. Here are some tips to help you begin: Start Small: Kick things off with easy projects like colouring books, simple knitting patterns, or basic sketches. Explore New Media: Mix it up with different materials like clay, paint, or collage to keep things interesting. Find a Group: Check out community workshops or craft clubs for a fun and supportive vibe. Check our workshops here. Create a Wellbeing Toolkit: Jazz up a box and fill it with your favourite creative supplies for those days when you need a little pick-me-up. My Journey in Art and Craft Before delving into the healing possibilities of art therapy, my life was filled with vibrant colours as a make-up artist and wig dresser in London's West End. Creating stunning visuals for theatrical performances was exhilarating. However, about 10 years ago, I put my career on hold to embrace the joys and challenges of motherhood. This transition left a gap where my creative passions once flourished. Paul, my beloved partner, introduced me to painting. He gifted me an easel and a set of colourful paints, encouraging me to express my feelings through art. As I began painting, I realised that the colours on my canvas were more than mere decorations – they were expressions of my deepest emotions and unspoken thoughts. Painting became an essential outlet for me, helping me navigate the complexities of motherhood and personal growth. Read more here . The Transformative Power of Creativity Creativity is a journey, not a destination. It allows us to explore our inner selves and connect with the world around us. Each brushstroke, each stitch, and each word can be a step towards healing. Art can be a mirror reflecting our innermost feelings. It can also be a bridge, connecting us to others who share similar experiences. In times of grief, this connection is invaluable. Art and Craft Workshops Join my workshops to experience a rewarding journey. Come with an open mind to connect with a welcoming community and create something unique. Suitable for beginners and experienced crafters, my sessions provide a safe, friendly, and fun environment to explore your creativity and connect with others. What You Can Expect: An encouraging environment suitable for all skill levels. Provision of all materials and guidance. Mindful and creative techniques aimed at helping you relax and unwind. Experience the joy of crafting something with your own hands and take the first step towards enhancing your well-being. Excited to get creative? Reserve your spot today and discover your inner artist! Click Here Remember, every piece of art tells a story. Let yours be a tale of resilience and hope.