Open To Ideas Workshop: Talking Tables Part I
Saturday 10th October 2026 , 11:00am to 1:00pm
Join documentary photographer and yoga teacher Amanda Eatwell for the first Open To Ideas Workshop: Talking Tables. A space to talk, be present and practice mindfulness.
Join documentary photographer and yoga teacher Amanda Eatwell for the first Open To Ideas Workshop: Talking Tables.
Talking Tables is based on the concept of a ‘long table’ discussion: a framework that allows people to join in conversations. The intention for the session is to have no hierarchical structure, and people are welcome to pose difficult questions or offer a conundrum for others to respond to. There is no pressure to talk, and prompts will be offered, but please feel free to come up with your own questions and an open mind. Let’s talk!
Amanda Eatwell is a documentary photographer and yoga teacher with a broad interest in the arts and wellbeing. Wandering and wondering have been her companions since childhood. It is with this sense of curiosity and questioning that Amanda will facilitate these sessions for others to share their own experiences and ideas in a safe and inclusive space.
Amanda will offer an optional light movement and yoga session at the end of her workshops.
What is an example question the ‘long table’ might discuss?
How do we keep calm in a chaotic world? At a time when we feel overloaded with information, bombarded with doom-laden news, and aware that our environment may struggle to sustain us, how can we find the tools to stay grounded, amidst all this data?
What does Community Look like? During the session we will think about what bonds us, what divides us, and how we see community.
What do we hope participants will learn from the session?
The session is an opportunity to learn from each other and see from multiple perspectives. By discussing big ideas in simple ways, or simple ideas in big ways, we will stretch our thinking and hear other views without pressure or prejudice. Participants will leave reflecting on the benefits of taking time to think more deeply about the world around them, and (perhaps) the courage to raise and discuss important issues with the people in their lives.
Will you need to bring anything?
Please bring a notebook and pen.
Open To Ideas Workshop: Table Talk
More about Amanda Eatwell
Amanda is a documentary and fine art photographer whose work explores human connection, societal shifts, and the subtle narratives within everyday life. Alongside her personal projects, Amanda takes on commissioned work, primarily collaborating with charities and third-sector organisations. She is also a yoga instructor, providing friendly and inclusive environments for her classes on the rooftop at the Lakeside Centre and beyond.
More about Open To Ideas Programme
Open To Ideas is a programme to help encourage ways to live a more fulfilled life: focusing on wellbeing and connection. The aim of the programme is to provide a safe and inclusive space for people to feel at ease discussing a range of topics and fully embracing mindful activities.
We recommend participants attend all or as many sessions as they can, to benefit from the holistic nature of experiencing multiple ways of practicing mindfulness, awareness and being present.
Six sessions to run October 2026 – January 2027. The rest of the programme to be announced soon!
Transport Information
Tube Station: Abbey Wood (National Rail, Elizabeth Line).
Bus: 117, 229, 401, 472, 601, 301, 602, 669, N1
Please note parking is not available. There is a Bike shed on site.
Access Information
The Lakeside Centre has step-free access throughout from street level, with access via the lifts to upper floor studios and the exhibition space. Accessible toilets are available on the ground floor and first floor, with baby change facilities available via Thamesmead Social cafe. This venue does not have a hearing loop system.
For full access information and queries, please email pandp@bowarts.com.
