A new creative project for the recovery community in Salford and Trafford.
Join artist Maisie Pritchard for a series of artmaking workshops, gallery visits and walks around local areas, leading to a public showcase at Salford Museum & Art Gallery, during this September’s Recoverist Month.
ABOUT
From May to July this year, Portraits of Recovery is inviting people in recovery, their friends, family, and significant others to connect and create.
Over eight weekly sessions, you’ll work alongside artist Maisie Pritchard to co-create, using playful art making techniques combined with activities that nurture connection and community.
The project takes its inspiration from Maisie’s artwork Put Your Foot Down, a work where people walk over floral foam, leaving footprints that traced multiple directions and journeys.
There is no single, linear path. Just many small journeys building on each other
WHY YOU SHOULD JOIN US
People who have taken part in Portraits of Recovery projects tell us they gained:
- Confidence – Trying something new in a safe, supportive space.
- Connection – Meeting people who understand the journey.
- Routine – Something positive and creative to look forward to each week.
- Skills – Hands-on experience with clay, toolmaking, drawing, and sculpture.
- Voice – Seeing your ideas and experiences turned into public art.
And you could too. Join us by expressing your interest below.
From attendees of ‘African Objects: Pyschoactives Spirituality & Mental Health
“I felt heard and valued… [that] I’m part of a group where everyone’s equal.”
“It was extremely supportive – [the facilitator] brought a welcoming and supportive energy.”
MEET THE ARTIST: Maisie Pritchard
Maisie is an artist who works alongside people to make art that is playful, hands-on, and useful. She is interested in simple, inventive processes — collecting materials as we walk, testing improvised tools, and thinking with our hands.
Her role is to hold a space that is open, supportive, and practical. Sessions are designed for gradual skill-building, with lived experience guiding the project’s development. Those taking part in the workshops may also take on facilitation roles, strengthening peer leadership and co-design.
All the need-to-knows
- Cost: Completely free. All materials provided.
- Travel: We can support with public transport costs if needed. Just ask.
- Access: All venues are fully accessible. Where possible, quiet zones and neurodiverse-friendly spaces will be available. Let us know how we can support you.
- When: Weekly sessions starting May 2026. Evenings and weekends to make the sessions more accessible.
Who’s running it: Portraits of Recovery, led by artist Maisie Pritchard, in partnership with Salford Museum & Art Gallery, Paradise Works, and The Lowry.
Ready to join us?
Fill in the short form below and we’ll be in touch.
Or if you’d rather talk to someone first email curator@portraitsofrecovery.org.uk.
Walk in My Shoes is a project by Portraits of Recovery.
Led by artist Maisie Pritchard.
In partnership with Salford Museum & Art Gallery, Paradise Works and The Lowry.
With thanks to Achieve.






