Peter Varney and Joy Croft are joining forces with Aude Gotto the founder of the King of Hearts Centre for People and the Arts to deliver a workshop that explores the power of the arts to inspire the mind, touch the heart and lift the spirit. The aim is to encourage openness and a new sensitivity to this precious source of nourishment.

When she founded the King of Hearts 18 years ago Aude Gotto’s aim was to create a haven where the arts would come from and speak to the heart, free from any elitist mystique. She sees the arts as a support on life’s journey, and believes that beauty and harmony have the power to renew our courage, widen our vision we lose sight of the ideal, and provide enjoyment when life is grey.

Joy Croft has studied literature as well as theology and believes that life inspires us through all creative work. Her chief loves are storytelling, classical music - both listening and singing - and the creation of ceremonies and rituals tailored to the needs of those who take part.

Peter Varney is a Quaker and an Anglican priest. He is interested in the connections between all the arts and ourselves, and also in the connections that come from outside. He has been a prison and hospital chaplain, and counsellor, and now leads retreats and quiet days, in Britain and abroad, focussing on receptivity and creativity while exploring our unique spiritual journeys. (Detail of painting by Peter Varney above)

For enquiries please contact Joy Croft on 01603 621947. Tickets cost £12. Please send cheques made to Joy Croft, with S.A.E to the King of Hearts, Fye Bridge Street, Norwich NR3 1LJ 01603 611412