25/09/2026
🌊🎨 Diving into stories with shells, pebbles and paint at the Ottery Memory Café 🎨🌊
From painting fish on pebbles to creating jellyfish mobiles and underwater scenes with shells, creativity flowed freely at this month’s Ottery Memory Café.
The session brought together memory café participants and local students, with volunteers Alex, Grace, Ed, Ameya and Jayan helping guide activities and conversations. It was a joy to see people of all ages connecting through creativity, memories and laughter.
Sea inspired stories emerged throughout the afternoon, from Bicton’s Shell House and puffins in America to childhood memories of Exmouth and South Africa. For many, the tactile nature of working with shells, sand and natural materials sparked memories and encouraged participation, including for those with visual impairments.
The workshops are part of a wider SenseOceans project, delivered by Ottery Help Scheme and partners, helping people connect with nature, creativity and one another through a series of multisensory experiences inspired by Devon’s coast.
💙 A huge thank you to all our volunteers, participants and partners who made the day so special.
