What We Do

Art Ease is a Sefton based Community Interest Company whose aim is to remove barriers to the arts, reduce isolation and loneliness, and support people with their wider wellbeing through the facilitation of accessible creative workshops in the North West.


Our story

Art Ease CIC was founded in 2024 by Southport based illustrator, Emmy Porter. Emmy began her professional journey as a dedicated Nurse in the NHS, where she developed a deep understanding of care and community. However, her passion for creativity led her to pursue a career as an illustrator, blending her compassion with her artistic talents.

To bring these two worlds together, she founded Art Ease, a community interest company based in Southport. Art Ease is committed to breaking down barriers to the arts, reducing isolation and loneliness, and enhancing wellbeing through accessible arts workshops. By combining her healthcare background with her artistic vision, Emmy creates meaningful opportunities for people to connect, express themselves, and thrive.


“Before I started coming to the workshops I would barely leave the house. Now I have new friends, confidence and hobbies and a new lease of life”

— Jane, workshop participant


What We’ve Achieved

  • Worked with over 10 different local community groups to provide accessible creative workshops to over 80 people.

  • Successfully bid for funding from The National Lottery, allowing us to host 80 fully funded workshops in 2025-26.

  • Secured further funding to host weekly “Mindful Drawing” classes in collaboration with Sefton Social Prescribing.

  • Links with local services such as GP practices and community groups, which we hope to grow in 2025!

  • Participating in National events such as Earth Day 2025 - contributing with sustainable crafts workshops.

  • 100% positive feedback from workshop participants and group leaders