Two names, one heart: a belief that everyone deserves a space to create, connect and feel good about themselves.
Why I do what I do
Hi, I’m Aattilia Fabbrini, founder of Coffee and Canvas.
My story didn’t start in Bronzefield. It started in childhood. Those early experiences followed me into adulthood: the memories, the fear, the feeling of not being heard.
For a long time I carried it quietly. Then I found art. Picking up a brush gave me something words never could: a safe place to put what I was feeling, a way to slow my breathing, and the quiet pride of making something beautiful out of something painful. Creative expression became part of how I heal, not instead of support, but alongside it.
Our mission
Coffee and Canvas exists to support anyone affected by domestic violence and abuse: women, men, children and families, whether you’re still in it, fleeing it, or rebuilding after it.
Through therapeutic, holistic art sessions led by someone with lived experience, we offer:
- A safe, welcoming space where you can come as you are, with no pressure to talk about your past.
- Creativity as a tool for healing: calming the mind, building confidence, and finding your voice again.
- Connection: a creative community circle where survivors support survivors.
- Something to look forward to: workshops, seasonal art packs and a circle that keeps growing.
No experience is needed. No judgement, ever. Just colour, conversation and a circle that holds you.
Our promise
- We lead with lived experience, compassion and respect.
- We put your safety first, and we will never share your story without your consent.
- We work alongside, not instead of, specialist domestic abuse, health and support services.
Where it all began
Coffee and Canvas was born inside HMP Bronzefield, the largest women’s prison in Europe. In a place few people ever see, a simple table of paints became somewhere to breathe, to talk and to rediscover a sense of self. We saw women transform pain into power and purpose, and we knew this feeling needed to reach as many people as possible. Read the Born in Bronzefield story.
From there, Coffee and Canvas grew into relaxed daytime sessions that welcome everyone: older adults and care homes, families and children, workplaces and friends celebrating together.
From coffee to cocktails
Before the canvases, there were nails. As a nail technician, I’ve always loved the artistry in the small details: colour, care, and the conversations that happen when someone sits down and gets to feel looked after. One chapter shaped me more than most: Sips, a cocktail bar and nail salon under one roof, where a fresh set came with a drink, good music and even better company.
Cocktails and Canvas is my tribute to that time. Picture a candlelit evening, a record player spinning the classics, a cocktail in one hand and a brush in the other. It grew out of Coffee and Canvas, so the same warmth runs through both. One is for bright, easy daytimes, and the other is for 18+ nights to remember.
What we believe
- Everyone can paint. No experience is needed, ever. We’ll guide you every step of the way.
- Everyone is welcome. Whatever your age, background, ability or story, you belong here.
- It’s about how it feels, not perfection. Relaxed, judgement-free and full of encouragement.
- We’re stronger together. Every session adds to a creative community circle where we lift each other up.
If you need help now
- In an emergency, call 999. If you can’t speak, stay on the line and press 55 when prompted.
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline (run by Refuge): 0808 2000 247, free and confidential, 24 hours a day.
- Men’s Advice Line (run by Respect): 0808 801 0327, Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm.
- Samaritans: 116 123, free, any time.
Coffee and Canvas offers therapeutic creative sessions, not clinical art therapy or crisis support.
