Artist Statement

I use the familiarity of domestic textiles and childhood games and toys to explore themes of safety, insecurity, protection, separation, transience and permanence. Initially – as research- I make small delicate and personal work based on artefacts and toys from my childhood that explores themes of feeling secure and loved.  As the work evolves and nostalgia becomes hindsight it begins to reflect universal themes around feeling safe in a precarious world and questions the responses and actions we take when we don’t.

My small scale personal works develop into large scale installations. Using local stories, histories and landmarks I invite the public to explore issues of modern day life, universal themes and current affairs in a non judgemental way.

Bio

I self-graduated as an artist from Islington Mill Art Academy in 2017 – a peer led experiment into alternative art education. During my three and a half years in the Academy I participated in two residencies that had a profound effect on my practice, and learnt printmaking skills on a yearlong course at Hotbed Press. I have an in-depth knowledge of textile processes, having explored, played with and studied the craft of textiles since childhood. I am currently conducting experiments into how I can use these processes to evoke emotional responses and awaken memories through touch, texture, expectations and technique.

Previously I worked for Salford City Council in social care and community development roles, often using craft and art as a means to bring people together to develop social and advocacy skills. In 2010, I became a self-employed community facilitator and gradually this has morphed into a community art practice based around group celebration and development, particularly in the field of diversity and inclusion. I have worked for a variety of organisations including DIY Theatre Company, START in Salford, Salford Community Leisure, City West Housing Trust, Salford Health Improvement Service, Ordsall Community Arts and Tandem Theatre Company.

I run community classes in creativity, textile art, mixed media and basic printmaking, designed to develop confidence and joy in creating and to reduce the fear of the imperfect! I am a Discover/Explore/Bronze and Silver Arts Award Advisor

CV